DOTHAN, Ala. (WTVY) - After four months of training, the Dothan Police Department has received a sensory inclusive first responder certification.
As of Tuesday, over 90% of the Dothan Police Department are certified to serve all citizens regardless of sensory needs, mental health challenges, or invisible disabilities.
All DPD patrol vehicles are now equipped with a “sensory bag.”
It includes items like noise-canceling headphones and fidgets to help people who may find themselves in overwhelming situations.
The certification is helping make DPD more inclusive and aware.
“Police get called in, day in and day out, into people’s homes, into people’s businesses, and any variety of locations to provide police services,” expressed Captain Rachel David. “It is very important that we understand that different people may respond differently, based on needs they may have, and how we can better equip ourselves and train ourselves to offer services to those individuals.”
Captain David says their training was interactive and they even heard directly from some who deal with sensory needs.
Copyright 2022 WTVY. All rights reserved.
Subscribe to our News 4 newsletter and receive the latest local news and weather straight to your email every morning. Get instant notifications on top stories from News 4 by downloading our mobile apps.
Author: Jasmine Johnson
Last Updated: 1704571082
Views: 1575
Rating: 3.7 / 5 (98 voted)
Reviews: 97% of readers found this page helpful
Name: Jasmine Johnson
Birthday: 2001-01-17
Address: 04731 Potter Forge Suite 524, South Steven, MA 58817
Phone: +4106309806666740
Job: Article Writer
Hobby: Billiards, Survival Skills, Cycling, Painting, Running, Quilting, Card Games
Introduction: My name is Jasmine Johnson, I am a resolute, skilled, fearless, exquisite, persistent, apt, honest person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.