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The Ulster County Department of Emergency Services in Kingston has introduced Project SAFE (Special Alert For Emergencies), a new initiative designed to enhance emergency response for individuals with cognitive or developmental conditions such as autism, Down syndrome, and Alzheimer's, as well as those who are blind or deaf. This voluntary alert program allows families, caregivers, and individuals to submit essential information, including name, address, behavioral considerations, emergency contacts, and preferred response approaches, to the county's 911 dispatch system.
When a registered individual is involved in an emergency, a distinct Project SAFE icon will notify dispatchers and first responders, enabling them to respond with greater awareness and sensitivity. According to Everett Erichsen, Director of Ulster County Emergency Services, "Project SAFE is about equipping our first responders with the information they need to serve our most vulnerable residents with compassion and care."
County Executive Jen Metzger emphasized the program's importance, stating that it "can make all the difference in responding to an emergency effectively and with compassion." The initiative aims to improve safety, reduce trauma, and promote trust between families and emergency personnel.
Community members can enroll in Project SAFE by completing the official form online. To support outreach and accessibility, Project SAFE will also be featured at the ThinkDIFFERENTLY Tent at the Ulster County Fair, where families can learn more about the program, ask questions, and complete in-person registrations with the help of trained staff. For more information, visit the Ulster County website here.