This is an excellent checklist prepared by our school's social worker. However, I was a bit sad reading it, as neighbor support is not an option for us - if you've read my previous blog posts on the subject, you understand.
Tips on Being Prepared for an “Autism Emergency”
To ensure safety and lower risk for a child or adult with autism, parents and care providers can become proactive and prepare an informational handout. A leading cause for concern is children and adults who run away or wander from parents and care providers.
Wandering can occur anywhere at any time. 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 can 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, animals, and/or water or is he/her 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, and have the opportunity to call you before they call 911.
Knowing your neighbors can lead to better social interactions for your loved ones with autism.
Prevention
If wandering is an issue for your family, consider contacting a professional locksmith, security company or home improvement professional.
Autism Emergency Contact Handout Model
• Name of child or adult
• Current photograph and physical description including height, weight, eye and hair color, 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, if any
• Inclination for elopement and any atypical behaviors or characteristics that may attract attention
• Favorite attractions and locations where person may be found
• Likes, dislikes--approach and de-escalation techniques
• A list of things that frighten your child
• Method of communication, if non-verbal ¬ sign language, picture boards, written word
• ID wear ¬ jewelry, tags on clothes, printed handout card
• Map and address guide to nearby properties with water sources and dangerous locations highlighted
***Carry this handout with you at all times. Have one in your home, car, and wallet and pass them out to family, friends, trusted neighbors, and co-workers.
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