Ridge VFD members, along with members of the Ridge VRS and NDWFD Co. 14, gathered last evening for our November drill; Understanding Autism and Other Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - First Responder Training. Mr. Neal Lichter, Program Director at Pathfinders for Autism, came to the firehouse to present on the topic.

The presentation focused specifically on helping first responders: recognize characteristics of unusual behavior; learn strategies for communication and de-escalation; understand the impact of sensory issues; and determine reasonable accommodations.

The training was interactive, informative, and very well received. If you are interested in learning more about the various resources Pathfinders for Autism has to offer, please reach out to them < https://www.pathfindersforautism.org >.

We'd like to thank Mr. Lichter for volunteering his time to educate the first responders of the First District.