Hillside Police Department Launches At-Risk Resident Recognition Program

The Hillside Police Department is devoted to maintaining the safety and security of citizens in the community through a partnership with those citizens. With this mission in mind, the Hillside Police Department has developed a program aimed at assisting Hillside residents with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The program's purpose is to enable officers and dispatchers to have critical information at their fingertips pertaining to residents with special needs and to assist in creating a more positive interaction with these residents prior to an emergency situation or call for service. 

The program utilizes an enrollment form called "At-Risk Resident Recognition Program Enrollment Form" which must be filled out by the parents or guardians of residents with special needs. Submitted forms are then entered into our CAD database to alert officers and dispatchers of possible contact with residents. The forms contain helpful information for first responders such as medical conditions, communication ability, and sensory issues. This allows HPD officers to utilize their training to have the most positive outcome during the interaction. 

 

The program offers residents decals to place on their vehicles or the front door of their residences to assist all first responders and notify them that there may be an individual present who needs special assistance. Participation in the program is entirely voluntary, and residents can opt-out at any time. The department encourages every member of the community to feel empowered and supported in their decision to participate.

To kick off the program, the Hillside Police Department is hosting a "Meet and Greet" event on Tuesday, April 30th from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Village Hall Board Room, 425 N. Hillside Ave. At this event, Hillside Police Officers will discuss with residents the importance of this program in aiding their family members during interactions with first responders. This also allows officers and residents with special needs to meet each other during a time outside of a critical incident. Additionally, assistance with form completion will be available onsite, and up-to-date photographs will be captured for department records.

 

For residents unable to attend the event, forms are available online or at the Police Department, 425 N. Hillside Ave. If visiting unfamiliar places poses challenges, officers can arrange to meet residents at a comfortable location of their choice.

 

Join the Hillside Police Department in creating a safer, more inclusive community for all residents. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.