B2F: Autism and Emergency Response: What Families Need Before 911

Emergency situations can be overwhelming for autistic individuals due to sensory input, communication challenges, and sudden environmental changes. This session examines how emergency scenes are experienced differently and how that gap can lead to confusion or escalation. Drawing from public safety experience and lived perspective, participants will learn what responders prioritize in critical moments and how families can prepare in advance. The focus is on practical strategies that improve communication, reduce risk, and support safer outcomes during emergency response.

Learning Outcomes:

Participants will identify at least three environmental factors that may trigger dysregulation for autistic individuals during emergency response.

Participants will describe how first responders assess and manage the initial phase of an emergency scene.

Participants will develop at least three practical preparedness strategies families can implement prior to a 911 event.

Speakers