Autism Safety Guide for First Responders
Disclaimer:
This guide is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not training, does not establish a standard of care, and does not replace agency policy, approved instruction, medical direction, legal advice, or professional judgment.Use of this guide is voluntary and at the user’s own risk. Interaction Advisory Group (IAG), the author, and contributors assume no liability for actions taken or outcomes resulting from use or misuse of this material.This guide may not be reproduced, distributed, modified, or used for training or commercial purposes without prior written permission.
This guide is informational only. Agencies seeking POST-aligned, instructor-led autism and I/DD training should contact Interaction Advisory Group.
Field Guide:
Common Behaviors
Little to No Eye Contact – This is common and not a sign of disrespect, defiance, or deception. Do not demand or expect eye contact during communication.Repetition of Words or Phrases (Echolalia) – The individual may repeat what you say or repeat their own words. This is a communication or self-regulation tool, not intentional noncompliance.Stimming (Repetitive Behaviors) – Rocking, hand-flapping, pacing, tapping, or fidgeting often helps reduce stress and keep the individual regulated. Allow stimming unless there is immediate danger.Repetition of Thoughts – The person may become “stuck” on a topic, question, or idea. This is a form of processing or self-soothing. Redirect gently with simple, concrete language.Verbal Outbursts – Loud vocalizations, yelling, or unexpected sounds often reflect overwhelm rather than intentional aggression. Lower demands, reduce sensory triggers, and slow down communication.Unusual Interest in Objects – The individual may fixate on or focus intensely on an object. This may help with regulation or communication. Removing the object abruptly can increase distress.Ritualistic Behaviors – Routines, patterns, or specific sequences of actions help create predictability and reduce anxiety. Interrupting these rituals without reason can escalate stress or behavior.Additional Info...
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CommunicationLow + Slow + Simple
a low, calm voice, slow pace, and simple, direct instructions.
Create Rapport – Tell the person you are there to help. Be patient. Use supportive non-verbal cues. Ask their preferred way to communicate.Slow Down – They need time to process. Pause after speaking. Use short, simple sentences.Be Clear & Literal – Avoid sarcasm, jokes, metaphors, or implied meaning.One Person Speaks – Multiple voices create confusion and overwhelm.Consider Sensory Needs– Use a low, friendly tone. Move to a quiet area if safe. Turn off lights, radios, and other noise sources. Calm environments work best.Don’t Expect Eye Contact– Lack of eye contact is not defiance and does not indicate deception.Avoid Open-Ended Questions – Provide clear choices instead. (“Sit or stand?” “Water or Tea?”)Stimming is OKAY – Rocking, flapping, pacing, or tapping helps them regulate. Allow it unless there is immediate danger.Respect Personal Space – Keep an appropriate distance. Approach slowly. Do not touch unless safety requires it and you have told them first.Offer Alternative Communication Options – Gestures, pointing, typing, visuals, yes/no cards, or allowing extra processing time.Use Caregivers, Friends, or Siblings – They can provide communication tips and calming strategies that work for that individual.Hear from Dustin, IAG:
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De-Escalation:
Physical control should only occur if danger is imminent and unavoidable.
Other Medical Conditions may impact health/safety of person.
SAFETY FIRST: Maintain time, distance, and shielding. Maintain reactionary gap and hands visible. Reduce the number of officers close to the individual. Remove triggers when possible (crowds, loud radios, flashing lights). Slowing down increases safety — stabilize the environment before addressing behavior.MEDICAL CONDITIONS: Be advised serious medical conditions may be present such as TSC, Respiratory, Cardiac and other serious conditions.WARNING SIGNS: Pacing, rocking, covering ears, repetitive speech, sudden silence, or clenched fists could indicate rising overload. These are cues to back up, soften tone, and reduce demands. Remember good comm skills. Stay Safe.REDUCE SENSORY LOAD: Lower lights and noise if safe. Increase distance. Limit talking to one officer. Avoid quick or repeated commands. De-escalation is most effective when the environment is calm.COMMUNICATION: Use Low + Slow + Simple. Speak clearly, one instruction at a time, using concrete language (“Stand here,” “Hands down”). Allow extra processing time. Avoid sarcasm or figurative language. Use reassurance: “You’re safe. Everything is going to be okay.”OFFER CONTROL: Provide simple two-choice options to reduce fear. Examples: “Sit or stand?” “Tea or water?” “Talk or no talking?” Too many choices increase overload.PREDICTABILITY: Tell them what is happening before it happens. “In 10 seconds we will walk to the car.” “I am stepping to your right.” Never surprise with touch.REDIRECT, DON’T CONFRONT: Offer an alternative behavior. Instead of “Stop hitting,” say “Hands on your knees.” Instead of “Stop yelling,” say “Use quiet voice” - Redirect, don't confront.WHEN AGGRESSION OCCURS: Protect safety by increasing distance, removing audience/sensory triggers, keeping tone neutral, and involving a caregiver if available. Physical control should only occur if danger is imminent and unavoidable.
Disclaimer: This guide is provided solely for informational purposes and may not be reproduced, distributed, or used as training material; it does not replace agency policy, authorized training, or professional judgment, and the author assumes no liability for its use.