I just got this and wanted to share with you all!!!


Are You Prepared for a Autism Emergency?

To ensure safety and lower risk for a child or an adult with autism,
parents and care providers will need to become proactive and prepare
an informational handout.

A leading cause for concern are children and adults who run away or
wander from parents and care providers. Tragically, children and
adults with autism are often attracted to water sources such as
pools, ponds, and lakes. Drowning is a leading cause of death for a
child or adult who has autism.

Wandering can occur anywhere at anytime. The first time is often the
worst time. Another concern is preparation in the event that you
become incapacitated or injured while caring for a person with autism
at home or in the community.

An informational handout should be developed, copied and carried with
you at all times--at home, in your car, purse or wallet. Also
circulate this handout to family members, trusted neighbors, friends
and co-workers. The handout will also come in handy if you are in an
area other than your neighborhood and are approached by the police.

If wandering is a concern, contact law enforcement, fire and
ambulance agencies. Ask your local 911 call center to "red flag"
this information in their 911 computer data base. Dispatchers can
alert patrol officers about your concerns before they arrive. When we
provide law enforcement with key information before an incident
occurs, we can expect better responses.

Alert your neighbors
The behaviors and characteristics of autism have the potential to
attract attention from the public. Law enforcement professionals
suggest that you reach out and get to know your neighbors.

Decide what information to present to neighbors

Does your child have a fear of cars and animals or is he drawn to
them?

Is your child a wanderer or runner?

Does he respond to his name or would a stranger think he is deaf?

Plan a brief visit to your neighbors

Introduce your child or adult or provide a photograph

If a neighbor spots your child outside of your yard, what is the best
way for them to get your child back to you?

Are there sensory issues your neighbors should know about?

Give your neighbor a simple handout with your name, address, and
phone number. Ask them to call you immediately if they see your son
or daughter outside the home. This approach may be a good way to
avoid problems down the road and will let your neighbors:

Know the reason for unusual behaviors

Know that you are approachable

Have the opportunity to call you before they call 911



HUGS!
Tammy Lynne