Westfield Cops Join Program To Better Interact With Drivers With Autism Spectrum Disorder

WESTFIELD, NJ — To better interact with community members with Autism Spectrum Disorder during traffic stops, the Westfield Police Department has recently announced its participation in the Blue Envelope Program.

Many individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder may have an impaired ability to communicate with others, difficulty in following directions, or may not be able to respond to questions.

They may also display physically with signs of being uncomfortable if touched, or if one moves too close to them.

If a person with Autism Spectrum Disorder should ever get stopped by the police while driving, he or she should present the Blue Envelope to the Police Officer.

It immediately identifies the driver as being medically diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and indicates whether he or she is verbal or non-verbal.

A driver with Autism Spectrum Disorder should place color photocopies of his or her drivers’ license, vehicle registration card, and insurance identification card in the Blue Envelope. A Blue Envelope with these documents should be kept in each vehicle operated by the person with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The front side of the Blue Envelope contains instructions for the driver with Autism Spectrum Disorder – like keeping his or her hands on the steering wheel or to ask the police officer before moving any parts of his or her body.

The back side of the blue envelope contains instructions for the Police Officer – like simplifying requests – or if the driver becomes upset, to telephone a person listed as an emergency contact for assistance.

Those with Autism Spectrum Disorder who would like to participate in the Blue Envelope Program can visit the Westfield Police Department, call 908-789-6040, or e-mail blueenvelope@wpdnj.org to request one or more Blue Envelopes.

— Submitted by Westfield Police Department