The city of Chandler announced its fire department has earned a "Certified Autism Center" designation from a national organization.

The designation comes from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, according to a news release. The designation recognizes organizations that have trained at least 80% of public-facing staff or volunteers to better communicate with, and respond to, autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals.

This specialized training provides Chandler Fire Department personnel with the knowledge and strategies to address sensory triggers, communication differences and tailored approaches for various scenarios, ensuring enhanced safety and comfort during interventions for autistic individuals and their families. 

IBCCES certifies organizations and corporate professionals in autism, neurodiversity, and cognitive disorder training internationally. IBCCES created programs specifically for police and fire departments so staff would be more knowledgeable and other accommodations could be offered to this growing-but-underserved part of each community. 

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