BERNARDS TOWNSHIP, NJ — The Bernards Township Police Department has announced the launch of the S.A.F.E.R. ID Program, a new initiative designed to assist children, teens and adults with special needs during emergency or law enforcement interactions.
The S.A.F.E.R. ID Program, which stands for Special Assistance & Familiarization for Emergency Response, will provide eligible Bernards Township residents with identification cards and lanyards issued by the department.
Each card will contain important information, including identifying details, emergency contacts, known medical conditions, atypical behaviors, potential triggers, and communication challenges.
Department officials say the program aims to help first responders access information quickly, respond more effectively, and manage situations safely when interacting with individuals who may have communication barriers or unique needs.
The program is voluntary and open to Bernards Township residents, with suggested participants including individuals with autism, traumatic brain injuries, dementia, Alzheimer’s and similar conditions.
Police encourage interested families to contact Sgt. Tracy Baldassare for more information about enrolling in the S.A.F.E.R. ID Program.
The department also recommends residents register special needs family members with the Public Safety A.I.D. Program, a secure database accessible to first responders throughout the area.
Further information on the Public Safety A.I.D. Program can be found on the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office website.
