Dacono
Blue Heart Initiative launches to build relationships with people with disabilities
Families can voluntarily display a sticker on a home or vehicle and submit confidential communication, medical or emergency-contact details to Sergeant Fisher at [email protected]. Officers are being trained to recognize the symbol.
The Blue Heart Initiative has launched as a community-based program designed to strengthen relationships between first responders and people with visible and non-visible disabilities.
Families may voluntarily display a Blue Heart sticker on a home or vehicle to discreetly indicate that someone in the household may have unique communication, sensory or medical needs. Officers are receiving training to recognize the symbol and respond with greater patience, awareness and understanding.
Families may choose to provide confidential information about a loved one’s communication preferences, behaviors, medical considerations or emergency contacts to assist first responders during emergencies. The Special Needs Community Member Information Form can be filled out and returned to Sergeant Fisher at [email protected].
“The Blue Heart Initiative is about building relationships before a crisis ever happens,” said Bryce Borders, deputy chief of police for the Firestone Police Department. Working with families and providing officers with additional training and resources can help better serve community members who may have unique communication, sensory or medical needs, Borders said.