First Responders Program
Launched in June 2017, the Autism Training for First Responders Program was developed as part of Giant Steps’ Autism-Inclusive Cities Project in collaboration with the City of Laval. The bilingual online initiative helped police officers, firefighters and other emergency personnel better understand and support autistic people during emergency situations.
The program provided practical strategies for recognizing different communication and sensory needs, adapting interactions, reducing stress and responding safely and respectfully. It also included educational materials for police and fire-safety outreach activities, helping autistic people become more familiar with emergency personnel and know what to expect during an interaction.
Initially introduced through the City of Laval’s autism-inclusive pilot project, the training became a resource for police and fire services across Canada. It also helped establish the foundation for Giant Steps’ continuing collaborations with public-safety organizations and its ongoing work to make emergency services more accessible and neuroinclusive.
