New Program in Chester Helps Special Needs Individuals Interact With Law Enforcement

The Town of Chester Police Department has just announced the addition of a new program to help individuals with special needs when they have an encounter with law enforcement.

It's called the Safe Me Program.

What is The Purpose of The "Safe Me" Program?

On Facebook the Town of Chester Police Department shared several slides of information regarding the new program.

According to the post, the purpose of the Safe Me program is to "reduce the potential for misunderstandings and enhance the safety and well being of individuals with special needs during interactions with law enforcement and emergency responders."

The post also explains that 1 in 54 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This may cause challenges in communication, language and behavior.

How Does the "Safe Me" Program Work?

The Town of Chester Police Department explains that according to some studies "1/3 to 1/2 of individuals with autism will encounter law enforcement at some point in their lives."

The Safe Me program is designed "to assist first responders in their interactions with special needs, vulnerable, or medically fragile individual while traveling or at home in case of emergency."

The Safe ME program provides families with a sticker that has a QR quote and a Safe Me number.

When the QR code is scanned, the first responders will be put in contact with the Town of Chester Police Department. Then, they will give the police department the Safe Me number to obtain details about the individual.

Learn more about the Safe Me program with the Town of Chester Police Department below:

Rockland County Sheriff's Office Adopts Blue Envelope Program

Other Hudson Valley police departments have different programs much like the Safe Me program to help local special needs individuals.

The Rockland County Sheriff's Office has adopted the Blue Envelope Program. Many other agencies across the US use this program that encourages drivers with Autism to get a blue envelope from their local police department.

The Blue Envelope can hold the drivers license, registration, insurance card or other relevant documents, that police officers usually ask for during a traffic stop.  The Rockland County Sheriff's Office adds:

when the police officer sees the Blue Envelope, the officer is immediately alerted to the driver’s autism and can adjust his or her own actions and reactions to fit that situation.

If you or someone you know is interested in getting a Blue Envelope, contact your local police department.