GASTON COUTY, N.C. - The 'Gaston Links to Success Program' helps students learn social and life skills, in an environment where they feel comfortable. As part of National Autism Awareness Month. Time Warner Cable News Reporter Kate Gaier has a closer look at how the students are learning to interact with first responders in the event of an emergency.
Students with the 'Gaston Links to Success Program' at Gaston College are getting a closer look at the roles played by first responders. Teachers say they have developmental disabilities and may not know how to act if they come in contact with emergency workers.
"What if it's your parent? What if it's your brother or sister? How would you be able to respond and answer those questions on their behalf? When do you call an ambulance? Or is it not bad enough to call an ambulance?" explained Manager of Continuing Education at Gaston College, Beth Hollars.
Beverly Shields son Austin has autism. She says when there was a fire at their home a few years ago, he didn't know what to do.
"The smoke alarms were going off, and here we are rushing, he just stood there and froze," said Shields.
Shields says the program has been a blessing for Austin and the family. It helps him be better prepared if there is ever another emergency. And it gives him options for his future.
"These are good, daily living skills they need to know,” added Shields. “That's a lot of things we take for granted, we know we know to do. But they don't know to do that."
Students recently toured an ambulance and even had a chance to test the equipment.
Lights and sounds the group can get used to, in an atmosphere where they feel comfortable.
"If they are ever in an emergency situation where they have to call 911 they will have more familiarity with what occurs," added Instructor with Gaston County Schools, Terri Dobbins Springer.
The ‘Gaston Links to Success' program works with students 18 to 22 years old to help them transition into the workforce.