PROCLAMATION August 20th, 2026

SAFE Program | Safeguarding American Families Everywhere

The Hardee County Board of County Commissioners recently recognized the SAFE Program (Safeguarding American Families Everywhere) as a countywide responsibility and an important resource for strengthening communication between residents with special needs and our local first responders.

The SAFE Program is designed to help first responders better understand an individual's needs before an emergency occurs. This can include residents with autism, intellectual or communication disabilities, Alzheimer's disease, PTSD, epilepsy, diabetes, hearing or vision impairments, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other conditions that may affect how someone communicates or responds during an emergency.

For first responders, having this information available can make a critical difference when every second counts. For individuals and families, it provides another way to help ensure their loved one's unique needs are understood during an emergency encounter.

The proclamation also serves as a reminder that keeping our community safe is a shared responsibility. By improving communication, increasing awareness, and looking out for our neighbors who may need additional assistance, we can help our first responders provide the best response possible.

Hardee County is proud to recognize the SAFE Program and the continued efforts to make our community safer and better prepared for every resident.

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