OHEL Provides Autism Awareness Training to a Diversity of First Responders

Brooklyn, NY, September 28, 2018 --(PR.com)-- This summer OHEL began training to community First Responders including police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, Shomrim, and Hatzalah members to educate responders on how to respond to a scene which includes someone diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum.

The training provides first-responders with the tools to help to de-escalate a potentially volatile situation through properly managing the sensory environment and learning effective communication skills.

Hindy Hecht, a Director at OHEL Bais Ezra, which delivers an array of services to individuals diagnosed with developmental disabilities, explains that “This training is vital since many standard and existing responders could potentially escalate a situation, rather than defuse and calm it.” Responders are taught what signs to look for, unique situation assessment approaches and techniques for effective intervention.

OHEL’s trainings have been attended by the NYPD, the Hatzloah Hub in the Catskills, members of Hatzalah in Far Rockaway/Five Towns, and members of Shomrim, with over 250 people learning essential techniques and methods to keep themselves and people with autism safe in all emergency situations.

OHEL has several other trainings scheduled over the next few weeks and welcomes all requests for organizations to receive this critical training to keep members of our community safe. For more information, please contact Hindy Hecht at Hindy_Hecht@ohelfamily.org.