VIDEO: After extensive training, Gilbert Fire & Rescue and the police department have become certified autism centers.
Some families can be fearful when they have to call 9-1-1 as it can sometimes escalate a situation if a loved one has autism. But, that’s not what a family experienced when they called Gilbert Fire & Rescue.
One Gilbert family witnessed the training's impact.
Meet five-year-old Tucker Merriman. The little boy loves cars and playing in the sand.
For Tucker’s mom, Sophia, their lives are changing every day, like any mom, but some days look different for Tucker as he's on the autism spectrum.
"We miss out on birthday parties and things like that just because the crowd or the singing might be overwhelming to him. I think sometimes people don't realize that," Sophia Merriman said.