Special Needs Information Programs (SNAP)

The City of Winters First Responders utilize the Special Needs Alert Program (SNAP) to address persons with special needs. The program assists First Responders (Police and Fire) to be more responsive during emergencies to residents of the City of Winters with special needs. Maintained by the City of Winters Police Department, the registry can help first responders identify those who cannot identify themselves due to a disability or special need, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, autism or a speech disorder.

Families or agencies can voluntarily provide information about their relatives/clients with special needs so that Law Enforcement and Fire personnel will:

• Have a photograph, description and contact information for people with special needs in our community who may need special assistance in an emergency.
• Be better equipped to help people with special needs who may become lost, injured or who may wander away from home.
• Be aware of special medical, safety and behavioral concerns of individuals with special needs.
• Be aware of accommodations that may be needed in interacting with the person.

The City of Winters Special Needs Alert Program (SNAP) assists First Responders (Police and Fire) by integrating information into our dispatch system. Families or agencies can voluntarily provide information about their relatives/clients with special needs such as: a physical disability, special need, Alzheimer’s or dementia, autism or a speech disorder. The information helps Law Enforcement and Fire personnel be aware of accommodations that may be needed in interacting with the person. This is a free program, the information is only available to first responders in Winters (Dispatch, Fire, and Police).

How to Register?

Complete the online SNAP Enrollment Form for yourself, a loved one, or client.

How do I include a photograph with the alert form?

There are two options for including a photograph with your alert form:
1. Attach a 4x6 printed photograph to your alert form and turn in
2. Email a .jpeg photograph to tips.winters@winterspolice.org

Please make sure the photograph is only of the registering person (portraits are best). The photograph needs to be of clear quality, recent and preferably in color. Photographs will not be returned to the registrant, so make sure you are submitting a copy.

What happens next?

After your Special Needs Alert Program form has been received, it will be processed and entered into the Police and Fire systems. It is up to the Individual/ Primary Caregiver/ or Responsible Party completing the form to keep the information updated and accurate with the City of Winters Public Safety.

How do I update the alert information?

Alert form information can be updated at any time by completing a Special Needs Alert Program form and checking the “Updated Alert” box at the top of the form or a form can be dropped off or mailed to the Police Department.

Is there a cost associated with this service?

No. Completing the form and registering with the Special Needs Alert Program (SNAP) is free of charge.

Have Questions or Need Assistance?

If you have questions, would like to request a physical copy of the enrollment form, or need help completing the Special Needs Alert Program form, please contact the Winters Police Department at (530) 794-6723 or by emailing questions to tips.winters@winterspolice.org.