Autism Alert Response FAQ's
Do I have to register my child for the Autism Response Program if they are diagnosed with autism?
No. Participation in the registry is completely voluntary. Families may choose to share as much or as little information as they feel comfortable with. The purpose of the program is to give law enforcement officers important details that may assist them during interactions or in the event of an elopement (wandering).
Who should register for the Autism Response program?
The registry is intended for any Elyria resident, child or adult, diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It is especially helpful for individuals who may be at risk of wandering or elopement, but any resident with ASD is welcome to be included.
How do I register a family member or loved one for this program?
You can register by completing the online Autism Response Program form, which will be submitted directly to the Elyria Police Department. If you prefer not to submit online, a printable version of the form is also available. Completed paper forms may be dropped off in person at the Elyria Police Department.
What happens once the person is registered?
The Elyria Police Department will securely maintain the registration information. This information will be accessible to police officers, EMS, fire, rescue, and dispatch personnel to help them safely and effectively interact and communicate with your loved one. It will also provide first responders with your contact details in case of an emergency.
Who has access to the information provided?
Only police officers and dispatch personnel who need the information to perform their duties will have access to the profile. In certain situations, relevant details may be shared with other first responders, such as EMS or fire personnel, to ensure the safest possible response during an emergency. The Elyria Police Department follows strict guidelines for accessing and sharing information and makes every effort to respect privacy and confidentiality while meeting the needs of those involved.
Can I update my profile if there are changes? How do I do that?
Yes. We ask that you review the information submitted annually and provide an updated photo each year. If any information changes before that time, you are encouraged to update it as soon as possible. Updates can be submitted by emailing autism.response@cityofelyria.org.
In the event of an emergency, do I need to tell officers that my child or dependent adult is registered?
Yes. If an incident occurs, it is helpful to let the dispatcher or responding officer know that your loved one is registered in the Autism Response Program. This allows the information to be quickly shared with on-duty personnel, reducing the need to gather details from parents or guardians during what may already be a stressful situation.
How will this registry help if my child or dependent elopes?
If a parent or guardian reports an elopement, the information on file will be immediately shared with on-duty personnel in the area to assist in locating the individual. If the individual is found before being reported missing and cannot effectively communicate their name or other details, the profile information, such as physical description and emergency contacts, helps officers quickly identify them and safely reunite them with their family.
As soon as I register, will the information be immediately available if a police response is required?
Not immediately. Once the registration form is submitted, the information must be entered into the system to capture all relevant details. This process can take up to two (2) weeks. A dedicated group of officers works to enter and update profiles as quickly as possible. To confirm that your loved one’s information has been added, you may email autism.response@cityofelyria.org or call dispatch at 440-323-3302.