Sgt. Timothy Landers holds two of the autism awareness seatbelt covers available for residents at the Concord Police Department. (Photo courtesy of the Concord Police Department) 
The seatbelt covers identify is a person is on the autism spectrum, including if they are non-verbal, so that first responders can respond accordingly. (Photo courtesy of the Concord Police Department)
CONCORD- Chief Joseph F. O’Connor is pleased to announce that the Concord Police Department is now offering autism awareness seatbelt covers for community members.
The autism awareness seatbelt covers are free of charge for any resident in need of one. The covers, which can also be attached to the strap of a backpack, help first responders identify if a person in a vehicle is on the autism spectrum during an emergency, allowing them to respond accordingly. Every April, as part of Autism Awareness Month, Concord Police Officers undergo training on recognizing and helping those with autism.
The Concord Police Relief Association donated the covers to the department.
Those interested in receiving an autism awareness seatbelt cover may call 978-318-3400 or can email Sgt. Timothy Landers at tlanders@concordma.gov. The seatbelt covers are available for pickup at the Concord Police Station, 219 Walden St.
“These covers will be an important resource for our residents and will help to ensure that members of the Concord Police Department meet the needs of our residents in order to provide the highest level of service,” Chief O’Connor said. “We encourage all who need a seatbelt cover to request theirs as soon as possible.”
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