Danville first responders visit kids with autism

Interaction designed to help educate, keep kids calm during emergencies

DANVILLE, Va. – First responders in Southside are helping kids with autism.

On Tuesday, Danville Life Saving Crew members and Danville firefighters spent time at Woodberry Hills Elementary interacting with kids with autism.

The goal was to help the kids understand what first responders do as well as help the kids become more comfortable interacting with first responders.

The first responders said having this type of interaction can be very beneficial when they respond to a call involving someone with autism.

"There's always a communication-type barrier going on," said DLSC EMT Jason White. "Education is key to it. The more they know about us, the less they're going to be frightened by us."

White said the less frightened kids are, the easier it is to determine how to help them.