Law enforcement and other first responders frequently have contact with residents with communication, cognitive, and physical needs that can make providing services more difficult. Emergency situations often create high anxiety, excitement, and physical demands thus exacerbating these pre-existing conditions.

To preemptively address these needs, the Kennett Square Police Department has embarked on an initiative to better assist our residents with special needs called, "Handle with Care".

The "Handle with Care" Registry allows residents to share information with our department that can include but is not limited to information pertaining to Elder Care, Dementia, Alzheimer's, Autism, or any other cognitive or physical condition that may require specific attention or assistance in an emergency.

The data collected will be used to provide officers with the information they need to help a "Handle with Care" resident without their caregiver, who may have wandered from home or who otherwise needs assistance. All information in the registry will be held in strict confidence.

The Kennett Square Police Department also encourages you to submit information to Smart911. Smart 911 is a free service that allows individuals and families to create a safety profile online, providing key information to Chester County's 9-1-1 Center. Safety profiles can be created at www.smart911.com.