LEBANON — The Lebanon Police Department is the latest Central Indiana law enforcement agency to join AWARE, a program created by the Avon Police Department last year.
Through decals placed on vehicles and homes, AWARE helps first responders identify situations and locations where they may be engaging with an individual with a cognitive disability or medical impairment.
"We want to make our community feel a little safer when they interact with the police," Lebanon Police Patrolman Tre Comage said. "Officers handle multiple situations a day [with] a lot of unknown factors, so getting rid of an unknown factor will give a little peace of mind to that officer, first responder, whoever it is on that call."
RELATED: AWARE program website
Avon Police Deputy Chief Brian Nugent says for law enforcement, the biggest concerns with individuals are the three c's: communication, comprehension and compliance. The AWARE decals serve as an indicator and allow law enforcement to take a proactive approach.
"Whether it's for a parent or a sibling, it'll give them that peace of mind that officers and first responders are looking for these stickers. And once we do see that, then we'll know how we can better interact with that situation that we're we're going into," Comage said. "The officers there are already aware of what could be inside the house."
The program launched in Lebanon in August. The department is encouraging the community to get decals.
To get a decal, complete the medical professional referral form by clicking here (en espanol aqui) and deliver the signed and complete form to the Lebanon Police Department.
The Zionsville Police Department, also in Boone County, participates in AWARE.
-
With help from the Colts, Brooke’s Place working to change lives
Talking about mental health is what the Indianapolis Colts' Kicking the Stigma campaign is all about.
IU alumni frustrated following change to Board of Trustees election process
Some Indiana University alumni say they feel disenfranchised after the state legislature removed their ability to elect three members of the school's Board of Trustees.
Report: John Haliburton will not attend Pacers games for "foreseeable future"
John Haliburton, father of Pacers Tyrese Haliburton, will not be in attendance at home and road games "for the foreseeable future, according to ESPN reporter Shams Charania.
Spring gardening tips from experts at IU Bloomington
Besides knowing how to keep IU Bloomington looking beautiful, Johnson also knows how to help people with their gardens at home.
