Tawas City First Responder C.A.R.E. Program

NEW PROGRAM – The Tawas City First Responder C.A.R.E. Program – an acronym for “Creating Appropriate Response Environments” is being rolled out in the community to help address potential communication barriers. As shown in the picture, stickers have been designed for people to place on their vehicles and/or the doors of their homes, to indicate to law enforcement, firefighters and other first responders that someone inside has autism and may need to be approached in a different manner. The program will also lead to additional training opportunities for local public safety personnel, particularly in the area of autism awareness. An effort of the Tawas City Manager, Police Chief and Fire Chief, the program is completely voluntary. It was initially unveiled during the April 1 City Council meeting, which fittingly also marked the start of Autism Awareness Month.

• Stickers are completely voluntary
• Sticker measurements are 2” x 3” for vehicles and 3” x 5” for house entrance doors
• Stickers are available through Tawas City Hall, Tawas City Police Department, Tawas City Fire Department, and Acorn Health (local Autism Center).