The Gilbert Fire & Rescue Department has achieved the Certified Autism Center designation, a certification given to organizations that have trained 80% or more of first responders and public-facing team members in how to better communicate with and respond to autistic and sensory-sensitive community members' needs.

The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards is the certifying body. 

"IBCCES autism training for first responders directly supports the mission of the Gilbert Fire & Rescue Department and with the Town of Gilbert's mission to 'Anticipate, Create, and Help ALL People,'” Gilbert Fire Chief Rob Duggan said in a town release.

Gilbert Fire & Rescue is the town's third department to earn the certification after the Police and Parks and Recreation departments.

"Autism directly impacts several of our members' families, and hearing their stories shared across our department increased the sense of purpose for the training," Duggan said. "Personalizing the impact of autism on our GFRD families also deepens the sense of belonging as members with other nonvisible disabilities feel safer discussing their unique challenges. By completing the training, our crews are better prepared to serve and respond to autistic people in our community."

With recent autism diagnosis rates increasing to 1 in 36 children, according to the CDC, and the prevalence of sensory needs as well as adults diagnosed later in life, the need has never been greater to ensure first responders have a better understanding of how to approach and assist autistic individuals, according to the town.

Fire and Police partnered with Trader Joe’s to host a Sensory Awareness Family Event this month. The event allowed for a calmer shopping environment including limiting store music and announcements as well as additional employee assistance. 

Fire & Rescue additionally attended the Lauren’s Institute for Education’s Spring Fling event.

IBCCES' first responder training and certification program reviews ways to better communicate, understand and identify individuals who may be autistic and scenario-based training to help avoid escalating situations if possible.

IBCCES has conducted cognitive disorder training and certification for more than 20 years for healthcare, education and corporate professionals. IBCCES programs include evidence-based content as well as the perspectives of autistic individuals, alongside other resources, ongoing support, and renewal requirements to ensure there is continued learning and a lasting impact, accordingt to the release.

IBCCES also created CertifiedAutismCenter.com, as a free online resource for families that lists certified locations and professionals. Each organization listed on the site has met Certified Autism Center requirements.