A Gloucester Township police officer places a Special Needs Registry sticker on his vehicle, signifying the presence of someone with a disability. The stickers are among measures meant to enhance safety and awareness.
Gloucester Township police have partnered with the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office to introduce a Special Needs Registry that will enhance the safety and well-being of individuals in the community who have special needs and disabilities.
The registry is designed to provide police with quick access to critical information during emergency situations, ensuring that those with special needs get the appropriate care and support. It also allows families and caregivers to submit important details about Alzheimer’s, dementia, Down syndrome or other conditions that may put those with disabilities at further risk.
The Special Needs Registry collects emergency contact details, physical descriptions, known routines, favorite attractions and specific needs of a disabled person, information that can help police communicate more effectively and make informed decisions in situations where time is of the essence.
Registration is available online through the prosecutor’s website at camdencountypros.org. Families are encouraged to fill out all questions thoroughly and include a current photograph of the individual being registered. Any information is kept confidential and will only be used by police officers during emergency situations. If any details change, families are advised to provide an update by re-registering.
In addition to the registry, township police have introduced additional measures to support the special-needs population. Free stickers that can be placed on vehicles or near the entrances of homes will alert officers that someone with special needs may be present and will be a visual cue for officers to be aware as they approach certain situations.
The poice department also provides sleeves that can be attached to seat belts and will inform first responders that a vehicle occupant may not respond as expected during incidents like a car accident. Township residents can obtain the free stickers and seatbelt sleeves by visiting the watch desk officer at police headquarters on Chews Landing Road in Laurel Springs.
For more information, contact the police department’s Community Relations Bureau at [email protected] or call (856) 228-4011.
