2024 Budget In Brief

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10-*$& %&1"35.&/5 In 2023, the Orland Park Police Department implemented the Village's new Occupant With Autism decal program, aimed at providing crucial information to emergency responders during response calls. This initiative utilizes placement of decals and a registration system to inform first responders about individuals with autism residing in homes or as drivers or passengers in vehicles. The program offers free decals to residents of Orland Park as well as non-residents who are employed or attend school in the area. These decals can be affixed near the front door of homes and/or on the rear window of vehicles, effectively alerting law enforcement officers to the presence of an occupant with autism. By recognizing the decal, officers can draw upon their autism training and adjust their approach accordingly, understanding that the individual may not communicate, respond to verbal commands, or be aware of potential dangers. Residents who wish to participate in the program but prefer not to display the decal NBZ still do so by registering without placing the sticker on their home or vehicle. The Orland Park Police Department will then flag the address in their dispatch system, ensuring that arriving officers are aware of the presence of an individual with autism in the home. Police Chief Eric Rossi emphasized the voluntary and beneficial nature of the program, stating, “This free and voluntary database managed by the department is designed to provide peace of mind to our residents. It serves as a valuable tool for enhancing interactions involving individuals with autism and the men and women of the Orland Park Police Department,” explained Rossi. “The decals will serve as a visible notification not only to police but to all first responders.” The Orland Park Police Department remains committed to ongoing training on the best strategies and approaches for law enforcement encounters with individuals on the autism spectrum. By continuously enhancing their knowledge and understanding, the department strives to ensure the safety and well-being of all community members.

Visit orlandpark.org/owaprogram or email AutismAwareness@orlandparkorg

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