IACP defines autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as a developmental disability that can cause significant social, sensory, communication, and behavioral challenges. People with autism are considered to be on a spectrum due to the variety and differences in learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
When a child with autism goes missing, proper law enforcement response is critical.
Some common characteristics related to missing children with autism may include:
- Go missing from their environment at a rate higher than other children
- Be non-speaking, non-verbal or non-responsive when their name is called by searching parties
- Exhibit a diminished sense of fear or engage in high-risk behavior, such as seeking water or active roadways
- Elude or hide from search teams
- Seek small or tightly enclosed spaces
- Overstimulated by and avoid lights and sounds.
After receiving the call of a missing child with autism and gathering the necessary information, certain locations pose more immediate concerns due to potential dangers. Here are a few tips of where to start with a search:
- Home: When any child goes missing from their residence, a hasty search of the property and outbuildings is essential.
- Bodies of Water: Children with autism are often drawn to water. This includes ponds, lakes, rivers, swimming pools, and any other nearby water sources. Start your search here immediately due to the high risk of drowning.
- Traffic Areas: Busy streets, highways, and parking lots are dangerous due to the risk of being struck by a vehicle. Check nearby roads and intersections for any signs of the child.
- Construction Sites: These areas can be hazardous due to heavy machinery, open pits, and other dangers. Look for any nearby construction sites or areas under renovation.
- High Places: Structures like rooftops, fire escapes, bridges, and tall playground equipment pose a fall risk. Ensure these areas are checked promptly.
- Dense Vegetation: Forests, wooded areas, or parks with dense vegetation can be disorienting and difficult to search. Children can become easily lost or stuck in these environments.
- Abandoned Buildings: These locations are hazardous due to unstable structures, broken glass, and other dangers. Search vacant or abandoned buildings in the vicinity.
- Favorite Spots: Based on the child’s known preferences and past behaviors, check any nearby locations the child is known to enjoy or has been found before. This might include specific parks, playgrounds, or familiar routes they like to walk.
- Railway Tracks: These pose a severe danger due to moving trains. Inspect any nearby railway tracks or stations.
Source: https://www.theiacp.org/sites/default/files/2023-08/272104_IACP_HomeSafe_First%20Responders_508c.pdf
