As autism rates continue to rise nationwide, it’s more important than ever for 911 dispatchers and public safety personnel to be prepared for encounters with individuals on the autism spectrum. In a recent Dispatch Pro lesson, we explored how autism impacts communication, behavior, and emergency response, and how dispatchers can respond with professionalism, confidence, and care.
Here’s a closer look at some of the important lessons from this month’s training:
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. Signs typically appear by age two, but each individual’s presentation can vary widely. Some autistic individuals are non-verbal and require significant support, while others live independently and excel academically or professionally with minimal assistance.
Common characteristics include:
- Difficulty with social interactions
- Repetitive behaviors or restricted interests
- Unusual reactions to sensory input (e.g., sound, light, textures)
- Special interests that dominate attention
Autism is not a disease to be “cured”; it is a different way of experiencing and interacting with the world.
Autism and the Law: ADA Protections
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), individuals with autism are protected from discrimination by public entities, including law enforcement and emergency services. The ADA requires reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to services.
This means that dispatchers and officers must be aware that an individual’s behavior may stem from autism rather than defiance, intoxication, or mental illness, and adjust their responses accordingly.
Recognizing Signs of Autism During a Call
Dispatchers are often the first point of contact and the first to spot signs that a caller may be autistic. Some outward indicators include:
- Delayed or unusual speech patterns (such as echolalia or repetitive phrases)
- Unusual sensitivity to noise, lights, or touch
- Difficulty adjusting to unexpected changes or instructions
- Literal thinking and confusion when figurative language is used
- A flat or highly emotional tone that doesn’t match the situation
- Obsession with a particular topic during the call
- Awkward or rigid social behavior
Recognizing these signs early can help dispatchers modify their communication approach and better prepare responding officers.
Best Practices for Dispatchers
Dispatch Pro’s lesson offered practical, actionable strategies for dispatchers handling calls involving individuals with autism:
- Use clear, simple, and literal language. Avoid idioms, sarcasm, or figurative expressions.
- Give step-by-step explanations. Help callers know what will happen next.
- Allow extra time for responses. Processing delays are common.
- Minimize loud or unexpected sounds when possible.
- If safe, involve a caregiver or trusted person. They can often help de-escalate the situation.
- Remain calm and patient. Escalating your tone or rushing the caller can increase anxiety.
- Flag important information for responders. Alert officers if the caller shows signs of autism or uses assistive devices.
By adapting communication strategies, dispatchers can prevent unnecessary confusion, escalation, and trauma for autistic individuals, and help officers arrive better informed.
Special Focus: Wandering and Safety Risks
One critical issue addressed was “wandering,” when autistic individuals unexpectedly leave safe environments. If a call involves a missing person with autism, dispatchers should prioritize gathering:
- Last known location
- Description and special interests
- Likely destinations (especially bodies of water)
- Communication challenges or sensory sensitivities
- Contact information for caregivers
Quick, informed action can be lifesaving. Dispatchers should emphasize urgency to officers while also preparing them to approach the individual calmly and without intimidating sensory stimuli.
Why This Training Matters
Autistic individuals are not more likely to commit violent crimes than the general population. However, misunderstandings between public safety personnel and autistic individuals can escalate situations unnecessarily, and expose departments to liability under the ADA.
By understanding autism and adopting simple best practices, dispatchers can:
- Build trust
- Improve outcomes
- Protect vulnerable individuals
- Strengthen community confidence in public safety services
At Police Legal Sciences, we believe that better understanding leads to better outcomes.
Dispatch Pro continues to deliver timely, practical lessons like these to help public safety professionals handle real-world emergencies with confidence and compassion.
Interested in seeing how Dispatch Pro can support your training goals?