Groton City adopting autism software being used in Stonington

Thanks to a partnership with Stonington, Groton City soon will have software to help it better respond to individuals who have an autism spectrum disorder.

The software, launched two years ago in Stonington, helps emergency personnel keep track of where people with autism live and what they may be sensitive to. Entry into the database is voluntary, but it can be beneficial to families because first responders will approach their homes knowing what to expect.

The software also shows first responders where the nearest bodies of water are, Groton City police Chief Mike Spellman said in a news release. That’s because drowning is the leading cause of death for those who are on the spectrum.

Spellman thanked Stonington for its assistance in transferring the software over. He said Stonington Information Technology Director Roger Kizer would be working with the Groton Utilities IT department to complete the process.

Spellman described the new software as an upgrade to what the city already has. Because salaried employees are making the transition, the costs should be minimal, he said.

Spellman was first selectman in Stonington when it implemented the software in 2016. He said Stonington also accomplished the upgrade with limited costs.

All of Groton City’s firefighters and police officers have been trained by the Autism and Law Enforcement Education Coalition, a Massachusetts-based organization that has trained 25,000 first responders in Massachusetts and almost 11,000 others nationwide. City Officer Bobby Harris additionally has been certified by ALEC to train other officers in how to respond to those who have special needs.

“With it being Autism Awareness Month in April, we are truly lighting it blue to serve the autism community,” Spellman said.