Safety Signs
In complete honesty, nothing makes me cringe more than those alerts that you see on homes and cars, the ones that alert the community that someone with autism lives there or the driver/passenger is autistic. I use to like them and think they were a good idea until I learned better. These signs without a doubt come with good intentions but have you ever stopped to think about what you could unintentionally be marketing?
Using these safety signs, tells outsiders that a vulnerable person lives in that home, is driving that vehicle or that a caregiver may be too distracted providing care for someone in that car… All of these scenarios make you an easy target. It’s an unfortunate world we live in sometimes. I’m not here to scare you. I’m here to make you aware of your surroundings.
So what is the alternative?
Place the sticker on the inside of the doors, so that the alert isn’t visible to everyone.
Use an alert seatbelt cover for the driver or passenger who may have a diagnosis. I think this is especially important if you’re a parent and have an autistic child with you. In the event of an accident, first responders would be able to identify the needs of your loved one if you’re unconscious.
Consider using a medical alert bracelet.
Take a look at our Safety drop down menu, and you’ll find a variety of ways that you can stay connected with first responders to alert them about your family’s needs… See Blue Envelope Program and Communication Accommodation.
Contact your local first responders to see if you can do a tour of their facility or ask if they have a notification system in their database. Several cities in Maricopa County allow you to put an indicator attached to your home address that is visible to first responders in the event they receive a call about your household.
Attend first responder events like Coffee with a Cop, Pizza with a Police, GAIN Night. If you see a first responder (law enforcement officer, firefighter, EMT, etc) in your community, especially at a public event, make sure to stop by and chat with them. The more exposure to first responders you have, the less anxious you may feel being around them. It also helps your loved one develop a relationship and helps the first responder gain a greater understanding of your family and the disability community in general. While Arizona is autism friendly, it never hurts to get to know your community helpers.
If you’re worried about your child eloping, talk to your trusted neighbors and make sure they know how to contact you if they see your child wandering.
Lock up your home like Fort Knox, no really… do it. It will give you peace of mind to know that your child can’t exit the home without a responsible adult. Don’t forget about the backyard gate and pool fences!
Reassess often! You’ll have to make changes as your child ages and gets taller. New height, equals new access.
There are many things we can do to ensure safety without risking unnecessary exposure and protecting privacy.
