WALTON COUNTY, Fla. — The Walton County Sheriff’s Office has launched an updated program designed to help deputies and first responders better assist residents with special physical, behavioral, or psychological needs during emergency and non-emergency calls.
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The initiative, known as the SAFE program, was renamed and revamped in 2025 from the agency’s former Handle With Care program. The updated system expands how information is collected and shared with responding personnel.
The sheriff’s office encourages Walton County residents to complete a SAFE Program Resident Support Form for each household member who may require special assistance. The form allows families to provide details that can help first responders communicate effectively and respond with appropriate care.
Once the information has been verified, an alert is entered into the sheriff’s office database. Any time a call is received involving the listed address or vehicle information, deputies or fire rescue crews responding to the call receive an alert describing the household member who may need special attention.
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Participants in the SAFE program also receive a custom decal to place on their vehicle or a window of their home, alerting first responders that someone inside may have special needs.
More information about the SAFE program, including how to enroll a loved one, is available through the Walton County Sheriff’s Office website.
