Springfield Firefighters Promote Autism Awareness

Springfield Firefighters are supporting Autism Awareness Month, a global initiative held every April to raise awareness, knowledge and understanding of the issues affecting those with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The Springfield Firefighters have modified their On-Duty T-shirts with the Autism Speaks logo. The National Autism Society designed the puzzle piece logo because it looked nothing like other organizational symbols. They describe the puzzle piece as appropriate because the children suffer from a "puzzling condition" that isolates them from society 

Through this initiative, the firefighters are hoping the public will ask them about their shirts and learn more about autism. As first responders, the Springfield Fire Department completed the Autism Awareness and Interaction Training Program offered by Prevent-Educate.org.

This training improved their understanding and sensitivity towards those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and how to better interact during emergency situations.

To learn more about autism, please visit http://www.autismspeaks.org/.