Autism and Wandering

Consider contacting a professional locksmith, security company or home improvement professional to promote safety and prevention in your home. You may find it is necessary to prevent your loved one from slipping away unnoticed by:

• • Installing secure dead bolt locks.
  • Installing a home security alarm system.
  • Installing inexpensive battery-operated alarms on doors and windows to alert you when opened (available at stores like Walmart and Radio Shack).
  • Placing hook and eye locks on all doors, above your child’s reach.
  • Fencing your yard.
  • Adhering printable STOP SIGNS to doors, windows and other exits, such as gates.

CONSIDER A PERSONAL LOCATING DEVICE
Check with local law enforcement for Project Lifesaver or LoJack SafetyNet services. These personal locating devices are worn on the wrist or ankle and locate the individual through radio frequency. Various GPS locating systems are also available.

CONSIDER AN ID BRACELET
Medical ID bracelets will include your name, telephone number and other important information. They may also state that your child has autism and is non-verbal if applicable. If your child will not wear a bracelet or necklace, consider a temporary tattoo with your contact information.

Swimming lessons for children with special needs are available at many YMCA locations. The final lesson should be with clothes on.

REMEMBER:

• • Teaching your child how to swim DOES NOT mean your child is safe in water.
  • If you own a pool, fence your pool. Use gates that self-close and self-latch higher than your children’s reach.
  • Remove all toys or items of interest from the pool when not in use.
  • Neighbors with pools should be made aware of these safety precautions and your child’s tendency to wander

It is recommended that caregivers plan a brief visit with neighbors to introduce their loved one or provide a photograph. Knowing your neighbors can help reduce the risks associated with wandering.

• • Give your neighbor a simple handout with your name, address, and phone number.
  • Ask them to call you immediately if they see your child outside the home.
  • Decide what other information to present to neighbors.
  • Does your child have a fear of cars and animals or is he/she drawn to them?
  • Does your child gravitate towards pools or nearby ponds or creeks?
  • Does he/she respond to their name or would a stranger think they are deaf?
  • Are there sensory issues or meltdown triggers your neighbors should know about?

Providing first responders with key information before an incident occurs may improve response. Informational handouts should include all pertinent information, and be copied and carried with caregivers at all times. Circulate the handout to family, neighbors, friends and co-workers, as well as first responders.

• • Name of child or adult, current photograph and physical description including any scars or other identifying marks Identify your child’s favorite song, toy or character
  • Names, home, cell and pager phone numbers and addresses of parents, other caregivers and emergency contact persons
  • Sensory, medical, or dietary issues and requirements
  • Favorite attractions and locations where the person may be found
  • Likes, dislikes, fears, triggers, and deescalation techniques
  • Method of communication: note if nonverbal, uses sign language, picture boards, or written words
  • ID wear, jewelry, tags on clothes
  • Map and address guide to nearby properties with water sources and dangerous locations highlighted