23-022 Sheriff Bob Gualtieri Announces New Program To Assist First Responders While Encountering Special Needs Individuals

Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office

PINELLAS COUNTY – Sheriff Bob Gualtieri announces a new program, “Respond with Care,” aimed at alerting and preparing first responders of a possible special needs individual inside of a residence or vehicle.

Caregivers or individuals with a variety of special needs, including autism, hearing impairment, visual impairment, mobility/physical disability, and those with sensory issues or cognitive differences, can request a sticker to display on their vehicle or residence so that law enforcement, fire personnel, or EMS will know that they may need to make accommodations when interacting with the individual. Alerting first responders to respond with care and to be prepared for a range of situations will assist with a smooth and safe interaction for all involved.

A caregiver or individual with a special need wishing to obtain a Respond with Care sticker can contact the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention & Community Awareness Unit at 727-582-2222.

Once you have your Respond with Care sticker, you should display it at a prominent location on or near the front door of your residence. For vehicles, the sticker should be displayed on the rear window where an approaching first responder may see it.

For information on other PCSO programs that help individuals with special needs, please visit pcsoweb.com.

Below is a photo of the Respond with Care sticker: