The Harlingen Police Department wants to know where every resident with autism resides — part of an initative called the Autism Spectrum Emergency Services Program.
Through the voluntary program, parents and relatives of people with autism may provide basic information to police for use during emergency situations.
For example, a parent could tell police her autistic son doesn’t like to be touched or becomes agitated after hearing loud noises.
“It’s really important that we be able to identify those people who have autism,” said police Sgt. David Osborne. “So that our officers arriving there will be able to better address their needs.”
Ann Colorado of Harlingen, who has a 4-year-old son with autism, said she supports the program. Her son attends a special prekindergarten class for children with autism.
“It could save a life,” Colorado said.
