Disabilities awareness for first responders is crucial. As emergency personnel work within their communities, knowing how to serve all individuals and their families is vital.

Unfortunately, even in the most up-to-date departments, instruction on understanding the needs, actions, and reactions of a person with an intellectual disability, is rarely discussed or taught.

As First Responders, we know that time is of the utmost importance. Being prepared to recognize that an individual has an intellectual disability and understand how to serve that individual can mean the difference between life and death.