ID Program For Special Needs Community Launched By Bernards Township Police

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — The Bernards Township Police Department has launched the Special Assistance & Familiarization for Emergency Response (S.A.F.E.R.) ID Program.

This initiative aims to improve safety and communication for residents with special needs during interactions with law enforcement and other first responders.

The department developed the program in response to concerns from families regarding how special needs family members might be perceived or managed during emergency encounters.

These concerns often centered on communication barriers, atypical behaviors, and potential misunderstandings in high-stress situations, according to the police department.

The S.A.F.E.R. ID Program is a voluntary initiative for eligible Bernards Township residents. Participants will receive a S.A.F.E.R. ID card and lanyard issued by the Police Department. The identification card will contain essential information for first responders.

This information includes identifying details, emergency contact information, known medical conditions, atypical behaviors, potential triggers, communication challenges, and other relevant safety information. The ID can be worn on the provided lanyard or carried in a wallet, depending on the individual’s ability to present it during an interaction.

The program's goal is to give first responders immediate access to helpful information. This access is intended to enable them to respond more effectively, communicate more successfully, and manage situations with greater understanding and safety for everyone involved, the department reported.

The Bernards Township Police Department stated that this initiative represents a continued commitment to strengthening community partnerships and enhancing safety for both special needs residents and first responders.

Residents living with conditions such as autism, traumatic brain injuries, dementia, and Alzheimer’s may qualify for the program. Families interested in learning more or registering a loved one can contact Sgt. Tracy Baldassare at tbaldassare@bernardspd.org for additional information.

Residents are also encouraged to register special needs family members with the Public Safety A.I.D. Program. This secure database is accessible only to first responders, including those outside of Bernards Township.

If a registered individual is not carrying their S.A.F.E.R. ID, vital information can still be accessed through this system to assist responders. More information on the A.I.D. program is available at somersetprosnj.gov/community-page/378.

See a sample of the S.A.F.E.R. ID below: