Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children aged 1 to 4 in Florida, and children with autism face even greater danger – many times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers. One key factor behind this alarming statistic is wandering, also known as elopement. Nearly 50% of children with autism will wander from a safe environment at some point. These incidents can happen in a split second and often lead to children being drawn to nearby water sources such as pools, ponds or canals – many of which are unprotected.

Children with autism are often naturally drawn to water because of its calming sensory qualities – its movement, sound and reflection can be soothing. Unfortunately, this attraction, combined with limited danger awareness or swimming ability, significantly increases their risk of drowning.

To provide a vital resource for parents, families and caregivers everywhere, Florida Atlantic University’s Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (FAU CARD) within the College of Education, has released a free, comprehensive manual, titled “Autism Water Safety & Drowning Prevention Resources,” to protect children with autism from drowning.

“Drowning is preventable, and awareness is the first step toward safety,” said Jack Scott, Ph.D., executive director of FAU CARD. “Children with autism face unique and serious challenges that make them more vulnerable around water. At FAU CARD, we believe that with the right knowledge, planning and training, families can reduce this risk dramatically. Our new manual is designed to help parents and others take immediate, practical steps to keep their children safe. This is part of the invaluable work we do every day – to provide families not only with resources, but with peace of mind.”

The new FAU CARD water safety manual includes crucial safety guidance such as:

• Creating an emergency plan: Step-by-step guide for parents and caregivers if a child wanders, including when to contact law enforcement.
• Home pool safety: Tips on barriers, alarms, drain covers and professionally installed pool.
• Active supervision: Designating a responsible, distraction-free “water watcher” during all water activities.
• Swimming lessons: Encouraging adaptive swimming instruction; swimming should be the first sport a child with autism learns.
• CPR training: How to get trained and why it’s essential to survival during a drowning emergency.
• Using the right safety equipment: The importance of United States Coast Guard-approved life jackets over recreational floatation toys.
• Removing temptations: Keeping toys and attractive objects out of the pool when not in use.

“Wandering can occur in any setting – at home, school, the park or a friend’s house – and is often unprovoked and unpredictable,” said Scott. “Children who elope may not respond to their names and often have little to no awareness of danger, making water especially perilous.”

FAU CARD urges parents to report any wandering behaviors to their clinical support specialist and to implement prevention strategies such as alarms, locks and community alert systems. The manual outlines specific steps for preparing emergency plans, including keeping a current photo, identifying likely destinations and always calling 911 immediately if a child goes missing.

“Children with autism often don’t perceive danger the same way, and many are naturally drawn to water,” said Scott. “That combination makes drowning a real and persistent threat – but one we can fight with awareness, education and planning. CARD’s mission is to stand beside families, provide expertise and help them feel confident in their child’s safety.”

FAU CARD is a free resource available to all individuals with autism and their families in Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast region. When a family registers, they are paired with a clinical support specialist who works collaboratively with them to build a personalized plan addressing development, safety, education and overall well-being. The center also provides families with tools such as water watcher lanyards, American Red Cross water safety class recommendations and access to local adaptive swimming programs.

FAU CARD is one of seven state-funded CARD centers across Florida. FAU CARD provides no-cost support, training and consultation to individuals with autism and related disabilities, their families, caregivers, educators, employers and community agencies. The center serves Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee counties.

If you have a child with autism – or suspect your child may have autism – contact FAU CARD at CARD@fau.edu or 561-213-5751 to discuss your concerns. Together, you and a clinical support specialist can build a personalized plan that supports your child’s development and safety.

-FAU-