Manatee Sheriff Launches Special Needs Sticker Program to Help First Responders

Displaying the Special Needs Occupant Sticker is a way to let first responders know about a special needs occupant in a home or vehicle. Individuals with a variety of special needs, such as sensory issues or cognitive differences, can display the sticker to help law enforcement, EMS, or fire personnel know they may have to make accommodations when interacting with the individual. Providing first responders with this information can help interactions go smoothly and safely.

WHO CAN USE THE STICKER?
Individuals with a variety of special needs can benefit from this sticker, including those with autism spectrum disorder, the deaf, the visually impaired, or disabled people, and those with cognitive or developmental differences.

WHERE DO I DISPLAY THE STICKER?
At home, place the sticker in a prominent location on or near the front door. On a vehicle, we suggest displaying the sticker on the rear window, where an approaching first responder can easily see it.

HAT HAPPENS WHEN FIRST RESPONDERS SEE THE STICKER?
They will know that someone in the home or vehicle has special needs and will be prepared for a variety of situations. For example, the individual may not be able to communicate. They may respond erratically or unpredictably to lights, loud noises, or unusual situations. They may have mobility issues or difficulty understanding instructions. First responders will be aware of the possibilities and find ways to help the individual.

WHAT OTHER MCSO PROGRAMS HELP PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS?
“Take Me Home” is a voluntary enrollment program for individuals with issues that may impede communication. When participating in the program, a deputy has easy access to photos and descriptions of the individual, as well as contact information for a guardian to help get them home safely. You can sign up for the Take Me Home Project here. 

SafetyNet provides a trackable wristband to people with a variety of cognitive needs that make them prone to wandering away from their caregivers. Deputies or caregivers can track the individual if they leave a safe area. Tracking bracelets are available to qualifying families through a grant administered by USF CARD. 

HOW DO I GET A STICKER FOR MYSELF OR A FAMILY MEMBER?
To obtain a sticker, stop by one of our district locations:

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office
Operations Center / District 1
600 US Hwy 301 Blvd., W. #202
Bradenton, FL 34205
Open daily, 6 AM – 11 PM

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office
District 2
3500 9th St. W.
Bradenton, FL 34205
Open M-F 8 AM – 4 PM

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office
District 3
616 67th St. Cir. E.
Bradenton, FL 34208
Open M-F 8 AM – 4 PM

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office
District 4
11506 Rangeland Pkwy
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Open M-F 8 AM – 4 PM

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office
District 5
301 Pine Ave.
Anna Maria, FL 34217
(Contact 941-747-3011 ext. 1547 to have a deputy respond to the office.)Manatee County Sheriff’s Office
Crime Prevention Section 
600 US Hwy 301 Blvd., W. #202
Bradenton, FL 34205
Call ahead at 941-747-3011 Ext. 2500

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?Contact the Crime Prevention Unit at 941-747-3011 Ext: 2500.

Photo from Manatee Sherriff’s Department