During an active response, a caller/caregiver can indicate that the individual in crisis is part of the Handle with Care Initiative to the 9-1-1 call takers. Information is then relayed via phone, computer, or police radio to responding officer(s).
Any call dispatched to a residence of an initiative participant will also alert the dispatcher and responding officer to the information in the Initiative. If an officer searches the subject’s name during a response, the corresponding warning file will alert responding officers to investigate the Initiative.
Dispatch notes repeat calls for emotionally distressed person(s) and cross-checks with the Initiative. If an individual is not included, dispatch will share this information with officers for their next interaction.
Enrollment
To enroll, email the Erie County Sheriff’s office at handlewithcare@erie.gov to request access to the initiative. The Erie County Sheriff’s office will send a link which will allow for input of the pertinent information. Fill in the required fields and click submit.
This is a voluntary program, and by submitting information to the Handle with Care Initiative, the person submitting the information certifies that the details provided are true and accurate.
It is the responsibility of the person submitting the information to update information annually, or more frequently if changes occur.
By providing this information, the person submitting the information consents to sharing it with first responders.
There is no specific medical information or diagnosis required for program entry. At any time, individuals and their families may update their entry and/or withdraw their information from the Initiative by emailing handlewithcare@erie.gov.
Privacy Concerns
Erie County is committed to protecting the privacy and the dignity of people who entrust their information to the Handle with Care Initiative by providing the level of security otherwise reserved for data used in highly sensitive criminal investigations. Program data will be maintained in our secure and encrypted Central Police Services Servers. Police agencies will be advised that information contained in the Initiative is for first responders use only and shall not be shared with third parties.