911 center Residential Premise program makes emergencies smoother for special needs

HOUSTON COUNTY — Encounters with first responders can often be stressful, especially for people with disabilities. A local agency has a program that hopes to make interactions smoother.

The Houston County E-911 Center’s Residential Premise Form, described by center director Capt. Veronica Edens, is a way to tell first responders you or a loved one has a special need.

Edens said anyone with a disability or medical need is welcome to fill out the form.

“It could be individuals that have autism. It could be they’re elderly and they live alone, they’re disabled. … The form gives us information to better assist those individuals,” she said.

Information is relayed to first responders. For example, a person in crisis who dislikes bright lights or noise can request no lights or sirens. 

Police knowing what an individual likes is key for calming. EMS and firefighters can also be aware of medical needs. The form also gives first responders caretaker contact information.

“If we tell our officers, ‘This person likes basketball,’ they know that they can go into it talking about basketball. Sometimes that deescalates the situation so that it’s safe for everyone involved,” Edens said.

The program is part of Logan’s Law, a state bill that passed in 2021. 

Houston County opted-in to the program soon after the bill’s passing. Residents voluntarily register their information.

Information is stored securely in-house; only the 911 center and first responders have access. In accordance to Logan’s Law, information is verified and updated every six months.

Edens pushed for the program to help the autism community and provide resources to first responders. The cause hit close to home for Edens, who has a son with Autism.

Autism is the main focus due to its relevance, but the program is available for any physical or mental conditions.

“It can be kids, it can be adults … It could be that somebody has serious medical [conditions.] We like to be able to have that information to assist them. It can be a range of anything,” she said.

Parents who opt into the program can feel at ease knowing first reponders have accurate information.

“It makes me feel better knowing that law enforcement, fire and EMS knows how to approach my child safely so he doesn’t get overwhelmed,” Edens said.

Participation is free and a benefit.

“Anything to assist our children and adults to ensure that they are safe, is something that we can’t take for granted,” Edens said. “We would love you to contact us so that we can sign you up for this program.”

To sign up, contact Edens directly at vedens@houstoncountyga.gov or call (478) 542-9911.