Two Tools to Enhance Autism Safety

Safety is a critical concern for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Many face unique challenges that can make everyday environments unpredictable and sometimes dangerous.

This post highlights two key tools—AngelSense and Project Lifesaver—that have made a real difference in providing peace of mind to caregivers and protecting individuals with autism.

This is the AngelSense watch.

Unique Safety Challenges for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum

Individuals on the autism spectrum often experience sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, and a strong need for routine. These factors can increase their risk in various environments:

• Wandering or elopement: Many individuals with autism have a tendency to wander away from safe spaces. This behavior can lead to dangerous situations, especially in busy or unfamiliar areas.

• Difficulty communicating distress: When overwhelmed or lost, some may struggle to express their needs or ask for help.

• Sensory overload: Crowded or noisy places can trigger anxiety or panic, causing sudden flight responses.

• Unpredictable reactions: Changes in routine or unexpected events can lead to confusion or disorientation.

  
  

Families and caregivers often live with the constant worry of these risks, seeking reliable ways to monitor and protect their loved ones without restricting their independence.

My son, Avery, is non-verbal, has displayed elopement behaviors and does not understand danger. I am constantly concerned about his safety but particularly when he rides the school bus, attends school, goes on a field trip or is out and about for other activities. I had no knowledge about tracking devices, which in part kept me from taking Avery to certain places. And, when we did go out, I was completely on edge!

Fortunately, my first care manager told me that our local police department participated in Project Lifesaver and gave me the number to contact them.

Project Lifesaver: Tracking and Rescue for At-Risk Individuals

Project Lifesaver is a community-based program that provides tracking technology and trained responders to locate individuals who wander due to cognitive conditions, including autism. The Project Lifesaver program is international and has helped thousands of families reunite with loved ones who wandered and became lost.

Purpose and Operation

• Personalized tracking bracelets: Individuals wear a lightweight radio transmitter that emits a unique signal.

• Rapid response teams: When a person goes missing, specially trained search teams use receivers to track the signal quickly.

• Community involvement: The program partners with local law enforcement and emergency services to ensure fast and coordinated searches.

• Free or low-cost service: Many communities offer Project Lifesaver at little or no cost to families.

  
  

Easy to set up and maintain

I contacted my local police department and easily arranged for an officer to come to my home and place the device on Avery's wrist. Avery was able to tolerate the band and the device and could wear it in the shower or bath and while swimming. Periodically, the officer would reach out to arrange a visit to our home to change the battery and ensure the device was working properly. I appreciated knowing that my local police participated in this program and that our assigned officer got to know Avery.

Visit www.projectlifesaver.org to learn more about the program. The site includes an agency search function where you can enter your zip code to see if your local law enforcement agency participates. You can also contact your local police department or municipality directly.

AngelSense: A GPS Solution Designed for Autism Safety

AngelSense is a GPS tracking device created specifically for individuals with special needs, including those on the autism spectrum. It offers features that address the unique safety concerns of this community.

Key Features and Benefits

• Real-time GPS tracking: Caregivers can see the exact location of their loved one on a map at any time through a smartphone app.

• Two-way voice communication: The device allows caregivers to listen in or speak directly to the wearer, providing reassurance or instructions.

• Safe zones and alerts: Families can set designated safe areas. If the individual leaves these zones, caregivers receive instant notifications.

• Route history: The app records where the person has been, helping caregivers understand patterns or identify risks.

• Discreet design: The device is small and worn like a watch or clipped to clothing, minimizing stigma or discomfort.

Learn more by taking the AngelSense Product Tour.

How AngelSense Supports Families

Avery's self-direction budget recently approved AngelSense as an Other than Personal Service (OTPS) under the Health & Safety line. With AngelSense we will be able to monitor his school bus rides and see a live tracking map, updated ETA, speed, and a detailed history for every ride. This will be helpful when we start Comm Hab and send him into the community with his immediate family. We will also set parameters for Emergency Detection Alerts to get notified for elopement, unfamiliar places, late arrivals, and more. And Angel Sense will support Avery with his inclusion and independence, allowing him to participate in activities while providing me with greater peace of mind!

This Avery, ready for school, wearing his AngelSense watch.

For many families, AngelSense has become a lifeline. Check out their amazing video testimonies.

Practical Tips for Enhancing Safety

Safety tools like AngelSense and Project Lifesaver are more than technology—they represent hope and security for families navigating daily challenges.

Beyond technology, families can take steps to improve safety in everyday life:

• Create clear routines and visual schedules to reduce anxiety and confusion.

• Teach safety skills such as recognizing safe strangers and how to ask for help.

• Use identification like medical alert bracelets or clothing labels.

• Practice emergency drills to prepare for unexpected situations.

• Build a support network with neighbors, schools, and local services aware of the individual’s needs.

  
  

Combining these strategies with tools like AngelSense and Project Lifesaver creates a comprehensive safety plan.

What safety strategies have you put in place to keep your loved one safe?