Police show support for National Autism Month

Published on April 04, 2022

Menlo Park officers will wear an autism awareness pin on their uniforms recognizing April as National Autism Awareness Month. Every day, the millions of Americans living with autism and their families face unique and overwhelming challenges. A 2018 autism prevalence report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1 in 44 children in the United States fall within the autism spectrum disorder. This estimate makes it clear that autism affects the lives of millions of Americans – our friends, neighbors, colleagues and family members.

Our police officers receive training to recognize the behavioral symptoms and characteristics of a child or adult who has autism, and learn basic response techniques. It is important that our officers are aware of the range of mannerisms and characteristics that autism presents to allow them to better assist members of the public and more safely carry out their job.

National Autism Awareness Month is a chance to raise awareness and educate the public about autism. Autism is a complex mental condition and developmental disability, characterized by difficulties in the way a person communicates and interacts with other people. Make a difference! Spread the word and encourage communities, organizations, families and individuals to get involved and learn more about autism.