Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health and Safety Guide
ASERT has compiled resources for those with autism and those who care for people with autism relating to the current COVID-19 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.