Wakefield Police To Light It Up Blue For Autism Awareness

WAKEFIELD – The Wakefield Police Department will be showing its support for Autism Awareness Month by participating in the Light it Up Blue event this week according to Police Chief Rick Smith.

National Autism Awareness Month, which occurs every year in April, aims to raise awareness about the disorder and raise money for research, treatment, therapy and interventions.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an average of one in 68 children in the U.S. have an Autism Spectrum Disorder that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges.

To help raise awareness and show support for families and individuals living with autism, Wakefield Police patrols will stop and illuminate their blue emergency lights for 60 seconds on Monday, April 2 -- which is World Autism Awareness Day -- at 7:30 p.m.

"We are honored to do our part in showing our support for autism awareness by participating in this event," Chief Smith said.

In addition to their participation in the Light it Up Blue event, Wakefield Police officers will be wearing blue autism awareness pins to raise awareness and to encourage conversations about the topic.

Photo courtesy Wakefield Police