By: Staff Editor
KATY, Texas — A new partnership between Willowfork Fire Department and Texas ABA Centers is helping reshape how first responders prepare to serve individuals with autism and other neurodiverse conditions—before an emergency ever happens.
The department has announced the launch of its Autism Awareness Training for First Responders, the first program of its kind in the area. The initiative is designed to provide firefighters and other public safety professionals with practical tools to better recognize, communicate with, de-escalate, and respond to individuals with autism while strengthening relationships with families and caregivers throughout the community.
The program is part of Willowfork Fire Department’s ongoing commitment to Community Risk Reduction (CRR), an approach that focuses on preventing emergencies and improving outcomes through education, partnerships, and proactive community engagement.
“This initiative has been something I’ve been working toward to better serve the special needs community while providing our first responders with additional knowledge and resources,” said Lia Hales, Community Risk Reduction Specialist for Willowfork Fire Department. “Our hope is that this partnership not only benefits our community but also becomes a model that other agencies can build upon.”
Rather than focusing solely on emergency response, the training emphasizes building trust and understanding before a crisis occurs. Participants will learn strategies for communicating with individuals on the autism spectrum, recognizing sensory sensitivities, using de-escalation techniques, and working effectively with caregivers during emergency situations.
The department is also extending an invitation to partner agencies across the region to attend one of the upcoming training sessions.
“We would love for our agency partners to come out, experience the presentation, and see firsthand what this partnership is all about,” Hales said.
The collaboration with Texas ABA Centers reflects a growing recognition that effective public safety involves understanding the diverse needs of the communities first responders serve. While autism awareness training has become more common nationwide, partnerships between local fire departments and behavioral health professionals remain relatively uncommon, making this initiative a significant step forward for the region.
The department hopes the program will serve as a foundation for stronger partnerships between public safety agencies and the autism and special needs community while creating a framework that other departments can adapt in their own communities.
Upcoming Autism Awareness Training Sessions
Willowfork Fire Department – Station 2 Training Room
26950 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
Katy, TX 77494
- Tuesday, July 21 – 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
- Friday, July 24 – 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, August 4 – 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
If anyone is interested in learning more or attending, please contact Lia Hales at lia.hales@willowforkfire.com or (346) 878-5785.
As Willowfork Fire Department continues expanding its Community Risk Reduction initiatives—from home safety surveys and child passenger safety programs to Stop the Bleed classes and public education events—this new partnership demonstrates that community safety extends beyond responding to emergencies. It begins with education, collaboration, and understanding.
