The City of Mason remains committed to its mission of building a culture of wellness throughout the community and continues to expand opportunities for community members of all ages and abilities to reach their highest wellness potential. Safety and inclusivity are important components to the City of Mason’s wellness mission. The City of Mason is proud to be a participating community in the nationally recognized Blue Envelope Program.
The Blue Envelope Program is a community safety initiative that is designed to support effective communication between law enforcement, first responders and individuals who may have conditions or disabilities that affect communication such as autism spectrum disorder. The Blue Envelope Program provides participating individuals with a designated blue envelope that is kept inside a vehicle and contains essential driving and medical documents related to the driver or a passenger within the car that has a communication disorder. The blue envelope is then provided to police and emergency service personnel during the interaction. While many first responders throughout the nation and state are familiar with the Blue Envelope Program, the envelope also includes guidelines for officers and EMS providers to enhance understanding and adjust their approach during an interaction.
In addition to the envelope, the City will provide residents with a blue envelope emblem that participants in the program can place on their vehicle for early identification for police and emergency service personnel when approaching the vehicle and prepare them to request the Blue Envelope from the driver.
Participants in the Blue Envelope Program are encouraged to complete and include the documents below inside their Blue Envelope. This checklist is also provided with each envelope:
- Copy of Driver’s License
- Copy of Vehicle Registration
- Copy of Insurance Card
- Emergency Contact List (provided within the envelope)
- Medical History/Medication & Allergy list (provided with the envelope) This information is intended to help EMS providers better understand an individual’s medical history and status to provide the most accurate, immediate care in the event of an emergency. Please see the example below of what medications and conditions are appropriate to include.
State Program
Mason residents with disabilities are also encouraged to register as part of the State of Ohio’s Disability Verification Program. This state-wide program tags a person’s license plate number to a database for those with a disability. This program helps law enforcement across the state communicate effectively with those who may need some additional help. The State of Ohio’s Disability Verification Program is another step towards creating an environment of inclusivity and compassion during interactions with public safety personnel. To learn more and complete the form, click here.
The City of Mason will host an opportunity for community members to learn more about the Blue Envelope Program as part of the Police Department’s monthly Safety Workshop series on Thursday, April 9 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. inside the Community Room at the Mason Municipal Aquatic Center. The Safety Workshop is free however registration is required. Click here to register to attend this valuable workshop.
The City of Mason’s Campus Safety Team is available to provide in-person training and outreach opportunities for designated audiences interested in learning more about the Blue Envelope Program. To schedule an outreach opportunity, please contact Lieutenant Steve Temple with the City of Mason Police Department by calling 513.229.8500 or by email at [email protected].
The Blue Envelope Program is a small but powerful step towards more inclusive public safety. This program is most effective when shaped by the voices of those it serves, and community feedback is an essential part of its process. Mason residents, caregivers and participants are encouraged to share their experiences and suggestions so that the program can better meet the needs of the Mason community. Feedback regarding the Blue Envelope Program can be directed to the City of Mason Police Lieutenant Steve Temple by calling 513.229.8500 or by email at [email protected].
Blue Envelope Program materials are available for distribution to the public at the following facilities during regular business hours:
City of Mason Police Department: 6000 Mason Montgomery Road | Business Hours: Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Fire Station 51: 4420 Mason Montgomery Road
Fire Station 52: 5500 Cedar Village Drive
Mason Community Center: 6050 Mason Montgomery Road
For additional questions regarding the Blue Envelope Program, please contact the Mason Police Department at 513.229.8560 or email [email protected].