Iowa City Fire Department to host Community Autism Day

IOWA CITY - The Iowa City Fire Department hosts a Community Autism Day event from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, 579 McCollister Blvd., Iowa City.

The event is free to the public and allows participants to explore a firetruck, police squad car and an ambulance in a safe and controlled environment. Snacks and drinks are to be provided.

According to a news release, organizers are seeking to raise awareness about autism among emergency service providers in the community, as well as build relationships with the special needs community and educate first responders and special needs care providers on how to handle emergency situations.

The event features the Iowa City Police Department, Johnson County Ambulance Service and Johnson County Sheriff's Office. While it is focused on the autism spectrum community, the event is open to anyone with special needs or those seeking to learn more about emergency service providers.

For more information, contact Matt Farrey with the Iowa City Fire Department at (319) 356-5263.

l Comments: (319) 398-8238; lee.hermiston@thegazette.com