Stay safe out there this weekend. Make others aware, and always #SearchWaterFirst Seven Factors that increase the risk of wandering/elopement fatality in those with #autism: 1. Age. Most wandering-related deaths occur in autistic children 14 & under. 2. Close proximity to water. Most drownings occur in residential, recreational, and vacation settings close to water, particularly ponds, rivers & lakes. 3. Hotels/Vacation Rentals/Unfamiliar Settings. This also includes a relative’s or friend’s home, or new home or school. Alert relatives, neighbors, friends, schools. Maintain extra hyper-vigilance & watch for unlocked doors, gates, and fence gaps. 4. Parties/Gatherings/Holidays. It is often thought that having more adults around strengthens protection, but the opposite can occur. Assign one adult to keep vigilant watch at all times. 5. Nap Time. Co-napping can result in the child waking first & exiting. This is also true for relatives or anyone watching the child. Warn them not to nap. 6. Recreational Outing or Outdoor Activity. Camp, a day at the beach or park, swimming, playing outside, etc., can increase risk. Make sure camp counselors, aides, and babysitters are aware. 7. Transitions/Overstimulation/Commotion. Noisy or high-stimuli settings or activities, along with stress/triggers can increase risk. Stay extra hyper-vigilant. (fb)

Shout out to this West Virginia community & collaborative agencies! Search tools help bring children & adults with autism home safe. Wandering prevention resources linked in comments. #autismsafety (fb)