Sensory event for kids with autism held at Gulfport Police Department

Gulfport authorities hosted an event all about training and introducing first responders to curious kids.

Community advocates joined Gulfport police and fire departments to invite children living with autism to talk to officers, play with sensory toys, and get a look at some of the equipment their heroes use on the job.

While this teaches the kids about first responder teams, officers receive specialized training on how to interact with people with autism during emergency situations.

Gulfport Police Chief Adam Cooper said, “First responders come in contact with these kids and adults, and we’re trying to show awareness and train our officers on how to deal with the special needs of autism. We have trainers who come in and specialize in the field, and that’s what they come in to show us. Some children and adults are sensitive to loud noises and don’t react well to loud commands, and that’s what our officers are trained to use.”

This is the second year Gulfport first responders held the event.