Port Alberni RCMP officers participate in training to better respond to those with autism

Port Alberni

2022-04-04 11:30 PDT

Port Alberni RCMP officers participate in training to better respond to those with autism.

On March 30th Port Alberni RCMP officers were joined by Port Alberni Fire Department, and volunteers from Alberni Valley Rescue Squad (many of who are also police officers, fire fighters, paramedics, nurses and teachers) participated in training with the Canucks Autism Network (CAN).

A classroom of first responders participate in Autism training

This training was specific to first responders who may deal with people who are on the autism spectrum. Officers learned new and different techniques to promote safe and positive interactions.

"1 in 37 children in BC and 1 in 66 people across Canada are on the autism spectrum, however they are seven times more likely to deal with a first responder, which makes this training all the more important," stated Constable Richard Johns. It is our duty to flex and learn to meet and exceed the ever changing needs and requirements of our community

Officers at the Port Alberni detachment continue to participate in both theoretical and operational training to increase public safety and quality of service.

CAN is considered a provincial leader in providing autism training to a variety of community-level groups, including over 1,600 first responders across BC and beyond.
Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is dedicated to providing programs to individuals on the spectrum and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC and beyond. For more information, please visit canucksautism.ca.

 

Released by

Cst. Richard Johns

Media Relations Officer
Port Alberni RCMP
4444 Morton Street, Port Alberni, BC V9Y 4M8
Office: 250-723-2424

Email: richard.johns@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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