Blue Envelope Program

Shaker Heights Police Department

Blue Envelope Program

Recently, Ohio launched the Blue Envelope Program. This communication tool assists drivers with developmental disabilities during interactions with law enforcement or emergency personnel. The program is free, voluntary, simple to use and can be accessed through your County Developmental Disabilities Board. Find out how you can participate.

How Does the Program Work?

Ohio’s Blue Envelope Program works as a communication tool to assist drivers with developmental disabilities during interactions with police, firefighters, EMS and other emergency situations. This program is especially helpful for individuals with Autism, anxiety or other conditions that might require accommodations or awareness during a law enforcement interaction.

Program Objectives
Individuals can request a free Blue Envelope packet from SHPD that contains:

• Blue Envelope – To keep important documents needed for traffic stops together in one place
• Car Decal – To signal to law enforcement or first responders that someone in vehicle has a disability and to look for the Blue Envelope with additional information
• Wallet Card – To carry with you to help provide information quickly to others in emergencies
• Program Brochure – To explain how to use items in the packet

Getting Your Blue Envelope

SHPD Blue Envelope Program

Blue Envelopes are available to residents, visitors, and individuals who work within the City of Shaker Heights.

To obtain a Blue Envelope:
Visit the Shaker Heights Police Department in person during normal business hours or these locations;

• Shaker Heights Police Department at 3355 Lee Road
• Shaker Police Community Resource Center in the Van Aken District
• Shaker Heights City Hall at 3400 Lee Road
• Shaker Heights Main Library, 16500 Van Aken Boulevard
• Shaker Heights Fire Department at 17000 Chagrin Boulevard
• Hanna Perkins Center for Child Development at 19910 Malvern Road

Preparing Your Blue Envelope

Once you receive your Blue Envelope, proper preparation is important so it can be used effectively during a traffic stop.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Collect a copy of your current driver’s license and vehicle registration.

Step 2: Insert Documents Into the Envelope
Place the documents inside the Blue Envelope so they are secure and easy to retrieve when requested.

Step 3: Choose an Accessible Location
Store the envelope in a clearly visible and easily reachable location, such as the driver’s side sun visor. This allows officers to quickly recognize the envelope and adjust their approach appropriately.

Step 4: Inform Other Drivers
If other individuals may drive your vehicle, make sure they understand what the Blue Envelope is, where it is stored, and how it should be used.

Step 5: Keep Information Updated
Regularly check the contents of the envelope to ensure all documents remain current.

Commitment to Community Safety

Through awareness, preparation, and empathy, the Shaker Heights Police Department strives to make traffic stops safer and more inclusive for everyone. The Blue Envelope Program reflects SHPD’s ongoing commitment to respectful engagement, transparency, and community trust.