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Parents of children with autism face many issues every day, but wandering is particularly frightening. A child can disappear in seconds if they’re prone to autism wandering. These children can be difficult to locate, and too many times the result is tragic.
Tracking devices can help parents and law enforcement officials quickly locate an autistic child who has wandered off. Recently, one child’s life was saved in Minnesota by a program called Project Lifesaver. The child had wandered into a heavily wooded area with several ponds, which posed an added risk to his safety since children with autism are often drawn to water. Thanks to the radio tracking device this child had received through Project Lifesaver, local firefighters found him safe within twenty minutes of his disappearance.
Another type of tracking device uses GPS to locate an autistic child who has wandered off. The child is fitted with a special tracking bracelet and his information is entered into a database. If the child wanders, the parents and law enforcement can quickly locate the child using the same type of GPS most people rely on for directions.
The drawback to electronic tracking devices is the cost. These devices and the services that provide them tend to be outside the price range of a family already struggling with the staggering cost of raising a child with autism. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has introduced a bill that would provide funding for more children to receive tracking devices through a program administered by the U.S. Department of Justice.
While electronic tracking devices add an extra layer of security in cases of autism wandering, having a fenced yard can help prevent a child with autism from getting lost. Adys Barracks is a non-profit organization that provides families with fences to help protect autistic children while enabling them to enjoy outdoor play. For more information on Adys Barracks or to make a donation, please contact us.
