REHOBOTH, Mass. (WLNE) — A Dighton police officer has started a new program to help first responders better handle situations involving those with intellectual disabilities. The first major step for Patrolman Aaron Swartz’s initiative was a meeting at Palmer River Elementary School in Rehoboth. “You can be a part of the problem or a part of the solution,” he said. “I’m here to present an altered response program that I started last year to develop a proactive approach or method to responding to people that are at risk.” Swartz said more information is always beneficial, whether its when dealing with someone with autism, dementia, or any other disability. “This program allows us to have pertinent information that we didn’t have before that could aid in a more efficient outcome,” he said. A few of those resources include stickers and safety belts that let first responders know that they may be handling someone with a disability. Swartz said the idea was a personal one for him. “I was trying to talk with my non-verbal nephew, who I realized as an uncle I wasn’t very good at talking to,” he explained. “As I started working and getting better with my nephew, I learned more and more what would be beneficial to us when we respond to a scene.” Swartz added that he is attempting to build a database to help raise awareness for residents who suffer from intellectual disabilities and disorders. The Emergency Services Altered Response survey is posted online, and loved ones can log information that they believe would prove helpful to first responders around the state. “If we have a missing child and we call search and rescue, they’re gonna come to our town and not know who these people are,” Swartz said. “These forms allow us to educate efficiently, so they can get out and be able to help, even if they aren’t from this town.” Categories: Massachusetts, News