A Delaware County teenager, Jessica Smith, is helping first responders interact with the disabled by providing a new tool—a police communication board, writes Beccah Hendrickson for 6abc.

Smith, 19, who is autistic, designed the boards so first responders and people with disabilities can communicate non-verbally. Her father, Carl Smith, is an EMS director at Boothwyn Ambulance.

“She saw a need that was out there and she had an interest in helping people,” Carl Smith said. 

The boards, which are growing more popular, have pictures and easy phrases like “when is your birthday?” or “scared”.   For those with sensory issues, there are phrases like “too bright” or “too loud.”

It’s based on a board-making program Jessica has used her entire life.

“They aren’t trained well enough to deal with people with disabilities and I wanted to make these boards to start a change,” said Jessica. “I care because I personally have autism and I’ve had some instances with the police.” 

Though her encounters weren’t “too bad,” the interactions could have been better.

Jessica has worked with police departments across Delaware County, tailoring the communication boards to each local department’s needs.  She’s also sent board to South Carolina and Nevada.

Read more about Jessica Smith’s communication boards at 6abc.