The Mahoning County Special Needs Registry is a voluntary service open to all citizens with special needs who reside in Mahoning County. The registry was created to help police officers and other emergency service personnel better assist residents with special needs in the event of an emergency by providing those first responders with vital information regarding a registrant’s special needs, emergency contact information, physical description and current photography.
The goal of the Special Needs Registry is to ensure all Mahoning County residents who may be in need of special assistance are able to get help and support they need in time of emergency or during interaction with Law Enforcements, Fire or EMS personnel.
Information provided to the registry will only be shared with 911 Dispatchers and first responders during an emergency or for the purpose of planning an emergency response.
The information contained in the registry can help in several different ways. Upon being dispatched to a residence, police dispatchers will be made aware that someone at that location is on the registry. Depending upon the type of call, the dispatcher can better assess the type of response necessary and dispatch manpower and resources accordingly. Also, police officers and/or first responder will be notified that there may be someone at the location with special needs so that they can better gauge their respective responses.
In the event that a person with special needs is reported missing, first responders will have current photographs and other vital information at their fingertips that will aid in locating the missing person more expeditiously. In an emergency, time is of the essence.
Questions can be emailed to specialneedsregistry@mahoningcountyoh.gov or you may contact 330-740-2330.