Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health and Safety Guide
ASERT has put together some resources for those with autism and those who care for people with autism relating to the current Coronavirus outbreak.
Questions to Ask if an Individual with Autism is Missing
Tips & Tools
Overview
A resource for police officers and emergency personnel when dealing with a situation involving a missing individual. These questions are listed below as well as being available to download under the general information section.
- Is the individual verbal?
- Does the individual use a communication device?
- Does the individual respond when their name is called?
- Does the individual recognize dangerous situations?
- Will search dogs scare the individual?
- Is the individual bothered by loud noises? (sirens, megaphone, helicopter, etc.)
- Does the individual have any sensory issues? (bothered by loud noises, bright lights, etc.)
- Is there a history of bullying and where has the individual gone in the past when they have been bullied?
- Do the neighbors know the individual and have you checked with them already?
- How does the individual travel? (walk, bike, car, subway, etc.)
- Do they have a cell phone or know how to use one?
- Does the individual have any type of autism identifier? (ID bracelet or card)
- Did you ever go over an emergency plan with them and what is it?
- What is the best way to talk with the individual when we find them?
- Is the individual employed? Have they been employed in the past? Where were they employed?
- Are you aware of any video cameras nearby or in the neighborhood that may have captured images of the individual?
- Do you know of any pools or other large bodies of water within the neighborhood?
- Is there a friend/family member within the community that the individual spends time with?
- Is there a place (park, restaurants, shopping center) the individual likes to visit?
- Does the individual have a special interest? (Trains, Pokemon Cards…leads to where they might go…train station, Target for new cards, etc.)
- Is there a place the individual likes to hide?
This information was developed by the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative (ASERT). For more information, please contact ASERT at 877-231-4244 or info@PAautism.org. ASERT is funded by the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations, PA Department of Human Services.