Why Awareness Matters: Safety
Is autism awareness a matter of life and death? In some cases, it can be. Making your community aware of some of the safety risks individuals with autism face could prevent a tragedy. It certainly can bring peace of mind to families who face challenges day to day.
Saying to the general public that we want to ensure the safety of all those with autism sounds obvious, but what does it mean?
Some individuals with autism may have increased safety risks that include:
Difficulties recognizing and avoiding danger, so they seem “fearless.” They need to be taught what and why a situation is dangerous and what could happen as a result.
Not easily identified as having autism. Often, individuals with autism do not show any obvious outward physical differences. Any unusual behaviors could attract the attention of law enforcement and possible criminal victimization.
Highly restrictive interests that may not be safe. For example, someone with autism who is drawn to car parts and goes into a crowded parking lot to inspect a vehicle. Or someone who likes fire or water.
Lack of social referencing. Most neurotypical children rely on their parents’ words, gestures, facial expressions and body language to let them know if something is dangerous. A lack of this skill is a critical deficit in children with autism and interferes with their understanding of safety skills.
Impaired communication. If someone has trouble understanding (called “receptive communication”), simply telling someone with autism “Stop doing that” is not usually the best way to stop dangerous behavior. If someone has difficulty telling you what they are feeling or thinking (called “expressive communication”) they may not be able to shout “Help!” or “Stop!” in a threatening situation.
Sensory risks. Unsafe situations can result if someone with autism is overloaded by their environment (loud noises, unpleasant smells, bright lights). Sensory overload may cause the person to want to “escape” and increase the risk for elopement or wandering.
So what can we do to identify hazards and educate our community?
There is no single or easy answer. Every day, families, autism educators, and service providers work to support those with autism in adapting to these safety risks and building life skills. Skills include training drivers with autism how to handle an encounter at a traffic stop to teaching water safety.
Pandemic aside, the goal is to have all individuals with autism feel safe and welcome in their communities, even those whose impairments create a substantial safety risk.
A great first step is to reach out to your local first responders (police, fire, EMS) to share autism resources. Training resources are available throughout the state. Connect with our 800.4.AUTISM Helpline for additional safety resources and articles.
Here’s a great example of what the Cranford Police Department is doing to address some of these safety challenges.
And don’t discount the importance of sharing these resources in your neighborhood and community. It could make a real difference!