Water safety is critical for families affected by autism. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children with autism who wander. Here are essential safety measures every family should know.

Teaching Water Safety

• ✓Start swim lessons early — look for instructors experienced with special needs
• ✓Use visual supports and social stories about pool rules before going
• ✓Practice 'stop and ask' — teach your child to always ask before going near water

Pool Safety at Home

• ✓Install four-sided fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates
• ✓Add pool alarms that detect water entry
• ✓Use door alarms on all exits to the pool area
• ✓Consider a pool safety cover
• ✓Never leave water unattended — even in buckets and bathtubs

At Public Pools & Beaches

• ✓Use a brightly colored swim shirt for easy visibility
• ✓Maintain arm's-reach supervision at all times
• ✓Consider a GPS tracker or water-activated alarm wristband
• ✓Identify the lifeguards and tell them about your child's needs
• ✓Go during less crowded times

In Case of Emergency

• ✓Teach your child to float on their back
• ✓Ensure caregivers know CPR
• ✓Keep rescue equipment (life ring, reaching pole) nearby
• ✓Have a phone accessible to call 911