AUTISM AWARENESS
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is committed to serving every member of our community with awareness, compassion, and understanding. Through specialized training, community partnerships, and our Autism Awareness Decal Program, we are working to better support individuals with autism and their families.
Autism Awareness Decal Program
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office offers Autism Awareness decals free of charge to help first responders quickly recognize when a person with autism may be present in a home or vehicle.
These decals notify deputies that someone inside may be on the autism spectrum, allowing officers to adjust their approach and apply their specialized training.
Individuals with autism may:
- Be nonverbal or have limited speech
- Not respond to verbal commands
- Avoid eye contact or communication
- Hide or wander from a location
- Have limited awareness of danger
Residents may place the decal near the front door of their home or on the rear window of their vehicle to help deputies respond with greater awareness and care.
Address Registration Option
Families who prefer not to place a decal on their home or vehicle may still participate in the program.
By completing the Autism Awareness registration form, the Sheriff’s Office can flag the address within our dispatch system so responding deputies are aware that a person with autism resides in the home.
Sensory Inclusive Partnership with KultureCity
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has partnered with KultureCity, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to creating sensory-inclusive environments for individuals with sensory needs and invisible disabilities.
Through this partnership:
- Deputies are becoming Sensory Inclusive™ Certified
- Officers receive training on communicating with individuals on the autism spectrum
- Our agency gains a deeper understanding of sensory sensitivities and behavioral responses
This training helps deputies better recognize and respond to individuals who may be experiencing sensory overload or communication challenges.
Sensory Support Bags in Patrol Vehicles
As part of this initiative, patrol deputies carry sensory bags in their vehicles to assist individuals who may become overwhelmed during emergency situations.
These bags include:
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Fidget tools and sensory items
- Nonverbal communication cards
These tools help deputies reduce stress, improve communication, and create calmer interactions.
Our Commitment
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is proud to serve a diverse community. Through education, awareness, and partnerships, we are committed to ensuring every resident — regardless of their abilities or sensory needs — is treated with respect, patience, and dignity.
Request a Decal or Register Your Address
Residents who would like to participate in the Autism Awareness Program can request decals or register their address by completing the registration form.
To Participate:
- Complete the Autism Awareness Registration Form below
- Select the number of decals you would like, or choose zero decals if you only want your address flagged in our dispatch system
Once registered, deputies responding to your address will have important information to help them better serve your household.