The Autism Project (TAP) will be joining forces with the Public Safety Special Needs Coalition and the State Police to host a Sensory Friendly Safety Day will take place in the parking lot of the old Newport Casino - 150 Admiral Kalbfus Rd. Newport, RI from 10:00am-2:00pm.

“TAP is excited to be a part of the many Sensory Friendly events happening across Rhode Island,” said executive director Joanne Quinn. “We’ve partnered with the PSSNC on many outreach activities to build community and to introduce autistic children, adults, family members and caregivers to first responders in a calm, fun atmosphere.”

The work is part of a larger grant to decrease elopement of autistic individuals. The sensory friendly events are safe and fun for everyone. “The first responders asked for information and training to better engage with all people during an accident, or a car stop,” said Ms. Quinn. “The goal is to learn on both sides so that in an emergency, things may go better for everyone.”

Under the grant The Autism Project is supporting ALEC Training (a program specific to Police and Fire on autism), parent training, creating short informational videos for first responders on different topics for autism, and are distributing packets with information, visual supports, and Emergency Information Magnets.

“The first responders talked about the importance of the magnets, especially during a fire,” commented Alicia Ead, PSSNC. “Families can write information on them and put the magnet on the refrigerator. First Responders look there for information about the family in the dwelling.”

The event is from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and community partners will also be there with resources and information. Packets and magnets will be available for first responders and families.

For more information contact: Joanne G. Quinn

(401) 500-3146

Jquinn5@lifespan.org