Access and Functional Needs Emergency Alert Program

Clear and accurate communication is a critical component of serving the emergency needs of a diverse community. As such, the Petaluma Police Department participates in the Access and Functional Needs Alert Program to increase public safety for all the populations we serve.

The Access and Functional Needs Program is designed to give first responders a visual “Alert” with the use of red reflective emergency stickers placed at the front of residences, buildings, and vehicles that house, care for, or transport persons with special needs. The dual-purpose for this program is to increase safety for community members who have access and functional needs who may, or may not, be able to respond to first responders during an emergency, and at the same time, give first responder personnel notification of these needs, so they may take inconsideration that alternative methods are required to assist the parties involved.

This voluntary program serves as a visual que “only” to first responders, as the data collected is not placed in the 911 dispatch center but is archived in a HIPPA compliant system. In addition, it is the responsibility of the community member participating in the Access and Functional Needs Program to update any changes to the data to ensure the information is accurate and associated with the correct vehicle or residence.

How the Access and Functional needs Registry works:

The Access and Functional Needs Program is a voluntary registry program available year-round to anyone residing within the city limits of Petaluma. You may request a sticker by emailing Community Engagement Liaison Kelsey McCarthy [email protected], pick one up in the Petaluma Police Department lobby (969 Petaluma boulevard North, Petaluma CA 94952), City Hall, Petaluma Fire Department, or through the SAFE team.

The Access and Functional Needs Program is a collaborative safety program supported by the City of Petaluma, Petaluma Fire Department and Petaluma Police Department.

Persons with Access and Functional Needs are those individuals with function-based needs (related to a restriction or limited ability to perform activities normally considered routine) that may require assistance before, during, and /or after a disaster or an emergency. To learn more about Access and Functional Needs definition, assistance, and resources, please visit Cal OES: https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/access-functional-needs