Because I own this site, and because it’s an interest of mine, I follow a lot of disability related Facebook pages. And lately, it felt like every other day, I would see a missing autistic person post being shared.
And, a few days later–a follow up. Unfortunately they were all the same–another autistic child drowning.
Turns out, it wasn’t my imagination. This summer has been a record year (and not the good kind of record) for autistic kids drowning.
Between June 1 and September 1, 2024, a total of 26 autistic children have died from drowning according to MissingKids.org. They also said:
Most of the children who drowned this summer were nine or younger and were found in natural bodies of water, particularly ponds. In addition to 26 drownings, there’ve been 12 very close calls and some “extraordinary rescues” in which the missing children were rescued in water when they were found, she said. One child was hospitalized in intensive care and, in another case, the father drowned trying to save his child. The aunt was able to pull the child to safety.
Let’s dig in and talk about why kids with autism are particularly at risk and, most importantly, what we can do to help keep them safe.
Autism Drowning Statistics
So, here’s a sobering truth: Drowning is a leading cause of death for children with autism. But as tough as it is to think about, it’s a critical issue that every parent, caregiver, and community member needs to understand.
Drowning is the number one cause of death for children with autism who wander.
About one in 44 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism, and studies show that nearly 50% of autistic children will wander or “elope” from a safe environment at some point in their lives.
Of those who wander, 90% are under the age of 14, and a heartbreaking 91% of those who die from wandering-related incidents drown. Those numbers are heavy, but understanding them is the first step toward prevention.
Why Are Autistic Kids Drawn to Water?
Many autistic children have a strong affinity for water. This could be due to sensory stimulation — the calming sensation of water on the skin, the weightlessness, or the soothing sounds. For some, it’s pure curiosity. And let’s be real, who isn’t a little bit mesmerized by a pool or a lake on a hot day?
But the challenge is, many children with autism also have limited awareness of danger or an impaired sense of fear. Combine that with a natural attraction to water, and you’ve got a situation that requires extra vigilance.
Search Water First
Many local communities are creating awareness campaigns among families and local responders.
That is, when an autistic child goes missing, check local bodies of water first. This could be a neighbor’s pool, a pond, even a retention basin after a rainstorm.
Any body of water that is not gated or secured should be checked. This includes large fountains.
How Can We Prevent These Tragic Accidents?
The good news? There are concrete steps you can take to reduce the risk:
- Supervision is Key: Sounds obvious, but I can’t stress it enough — constant supervision around any body of water is crucial. And not just pools. Think lakes, rivers, ponds, even large puddles.
- Secure Your Environment: Install barriers, such as fences with self-latching gates around pools. Alarms on doors or windows can alert you if your child tries to leave the house.
- Swim Lessons and Water Safety: Enroll your child in swimming lessons that are specifically designed for children with autism. Programs like “Water Safety for Autistic Kids” cater to their unique learning needs, which is a game-changer.
- Educate Your Community: Make sure that neighbors, teachers, and local law enforcement know that your child is prone to wandering. Share a current photo and details that could help if they were to go missing. It’s not overkill — it’s peace of mind. Again remember: Search water first!
- Tracking Devices: GPS tracking devices like AngelSense can provide a bit of comfort, giving you the ability to locate your child quickly if they wander.
- Teach Water Safety: Beyond swim lessons, teach your child to respect the water. Explain the dangers in a way they can understand. Practice safe behavior near water as often as you can.
- Create a “Water Safety Visual Schedule”: For many autistic children, visual schedules are an effective way to communicate routines and safety rules. Design a water safety visual schedule that includes pictures or icons showing safe behavior around water, such as “Stay with an adult,” “Do not enter water alone,” and “Wait for permission to swim.” Reinforce this schedule regularly, especially before any outings near water. This can help children with autism understand expectations and reduce anxiety around water-related activities.
- Buddy System: For older kids, a buddy system can work wonders. If they are going to be near water, make sure they have a buddy who understands their needs and can help them stay safe.
- Prepare Your Child: Take your child to local police station and fire station open houses and activities, to meet with first responders. This may help them be less afraid should they encounter one who is looking for them. A child may not respond to a stranger’s voice or commands.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Just know that taking even one of these steps can significantly reduce the risk for your child. And at the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about — doing what we can to keep our kids safe and sound.
Remember, knowledge is power. Spread the word, share this with your friends, and let’s all work together to prevent these tragedies.
