Employees of the Mesa parks system have completed awareness and sensitivity training to better serve guests with autism. 

About 500 employees recently took online training classes from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards.

Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Director Marc Heirshberg says it will be especially helpful for the front line employees including life guards and summer camp staff that work seasonally. 

Heirshberg says the personnel training is part of a larger commitment from the parks department to recognize triggers for people with autism and helping them feel safe in a public space.

“Making sure we have quiet spaces to get away," Heirshberg said, "that benches are removed from certain areas so mom and dad can take the child away from all the action that’s happening.”

Heirshberg says the staff will complete the training every two years.