OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla., Jan. 12, 2023–The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is putting in place a program geared toward boosting the odds of better communication and emergency responses between deputies and citizens with special needs.

The “SAFE” program focuses on families providing enhanced information on loved ones with Alzheimer’s, autism, communication disorders or any disabilities in case of an emergency where communication is critical.

That information is then available for dispatchers to share with first responders if an emergency arises.

The sheriff’s office will also mail out special “safe” decals to those enrolled. Decals can be displayed at a home’s entry point and/or on a vehicle so first responders can approach an emergency situation with a better understanding of how to best connect with individuals to keep them safe.

Enrollment and other information can be found at https://www.sheriff-okaloosa.org/safe-program/.

OCSO news release