Law Enforcement, Fire Safety and Disaster Preparedness for the Autism and Developmental Disability Community

All parents have safety concerns regarding their children. Still, children and adults with autism are at a higher risk of interactions with law enforcement, being hurt, victimized, or wandering away (sometimes called eloping). The Autism Society Inland Empire assists First Responders and families in addressing these issues. Safety skills can be taught as part of life skills. Some of these skills can be added to an IEP as part of an in-home ABA program or Independent Living Skills (ILS) program. We want to equip our community with the knowledge and resources so we all can live healthy life.

Blue Envelope Program

In 2024, the Autism Society Inland Empire, in partnership with Inland Regional Center (IRC) and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, launched the Blue Envelope Program—a voluntary initiative designed to improve interactions between law enforcement and individuals with communication challenges, including those with Autism, other developmental disabilities, and members of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. Funded by a California Department of Developmental Services grant, the program provides a blue envelope for drivers to present during traffic stops, along with optional items like bracelets, seatbelt covers, and decals to help communicate a person’s needs in public settings. Created with families in mind, the program is entirely voluntary, collects no personal data, and offers culturally and linguistically inclusive training and materials. It’s a simple yet powerful way to promote safety, understanding, and dignity for our loved ones in the community. This program has spread to other police departments and fire departments.  For a list of participating departments, visit – https://wp.sbcounty.gov/sheriff/blue-envelope/

Communication Toolkit

Autistic people communicate differently. Some people may be non-verbal or find traditional forms of communication difficult or confusing, and during a time of stress, communication may get even more difficult. Thanks to a grant from Ability Central, the Autism Society Inland Empire, with the help of adults with Autism and professionals, has created an Emergency Toolkit. This toolkit is being given to First Responders and families to give the members of our community to communicate in a crisis situation. Click here for more information.

Defense Attorneys and Public Defenders

A 30-Minute Training for Public Defenders
Presented by Joshua D. Feder, MD
This focused training equips public defenders with essential insights into Autism in teens and adults—particularly those who mask their traits or remain undiagnosed. Dr. Joshua D. Feder, a nationally recognized child and family psychiatrist and forensic Autism expert, explores how autism can present in subtle or misunderstood ways in legal contexts. Participants will gain practical tools to recognize signs of Autism, understand the impact of masking, and advocate more effectively for clients whose needs may otherwise go unseen. Click here to learn more about Dr. Feder
deputy chief pointing

Disaster Preparedness

People with disabilities are 2 to 4 times more likely to die or sustain a critical injury during a disaster than people without disabilities. Since 2016, the Autism Society Inland Empire has started its Safety and Disaster Preparedness Initiative. We have subject matter experts and adults with Autism present on topics including building a safety plan, preparing for a disaster, active shooter training, interacting with law enforcement, using a fire extinguisher, what to do during an earthquake, hands-only CPR, and more.  Click here for more information.

First Responder Training

By the time they reach age 21, one in five autistic youths will have been questioned by police, and one in 20 will be arrested.  The Autism Society Inland Empire has created a 4-hour POST-certified training, “Use of Force & De-escalation for Individuals with Autism and Developmental Disabilities.”  This class is taught by either active or retired law enforcement and features interaction with adults with Autism and other developmental disabilities.  Over 200 officers have been trained, and the class continues to receive excellent reviews.  There may be a charge for this class, depending on grant availability.  Contact us at 951-220-6922 or [email protected] for more information.

House on fire

House Fire Safety Resources

Make Sure Your Family Is Prepared!It is common for some individuals with Autism to want to stay in their bedroom or their favorite safe place during a fire.  They may be waiting for someone to rescue them or tell them what to do.  Some will be overcome with the fight, flight, or freeze response and even become combative if someone tries to remove them from their room.  Click here on how to help your family prepare for a house fire.

Interacting with Law Enforcement

Studies show that individuals with developmental disabilities are up to 7x more likely to encounter law enforcement than the general population. That’s why the Autism Society Inland Empire partners with local agencies to provide training, resources, and tools—such as the Blue Envelope Program and Sensory Kits—to help officers recognize and respond appropriately to individuals with Autism.  Equally important is preparing individuals and families to safely navigate these interactions. Click here for our practical guidance to help families and individuals feel more confident and empowered. Click here to learn more.

Online Safety

Online safety is important for everyone, but especially for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), who may face unique challenges when navigating the digital world. Learning how to stay safe online helps build confidence, independence, and protection from potential risks like scams, cyberbullying, or inappropriate content. We are happy to share this Online Safety Guide for Teens and Adults with ASD developed by Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center. 

Safety Registration Programs

These optional programs are designed to assist Law Enforcement agencies with members of the community who have disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Down syndrome, and other developmental and intellectual disabilities to ensure the special needs person’s safe return home.  Click here to find information for Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange Counties.

Wandering or Eloping

Nearly half of children with autism engage in wandering or eloping behavior, often placing themselves in dangerous situations. The Autism Society Inland Empire provides essential resources to help families prevent wandering incidents and respond effectively if a loved one goes missing. From safety kits and tracking tools to emergency planning tips, we’re here to support your family’s peace of mind.  Click here to explore our wandering prevention resources and safety tips.