All parents and caregivers agree that keeping children safe is our most important duty. However, if your child has autism, that may require different monitoring and modifications in the home and unfamiliar settings. The best way to ensure that your child is safe is by preparing for the worst. If you know your child tends to wander, then learn what compels them to do so.

Using safety methods like safeguarding hazardous items or teaching personal safety tactics will protect them from dangerous situations. Although there are many ways to keep your child safe, here are our top five safety tips for parents of children with autism.

Lock Away Hazardous Items

Children are curious and naïve beings. So, while you may know that detergent is not safe to ingest, your child may not. Locking away items that are hazardous if swallowed—like medications, small plastic items, or cleaning supplies—is essential. Children may mistake your prescription for candy or the window cleaner for juice. Keeping these items out of reach from your child is the best option.

You should also secure hazardous items to use without permission, such as scissors or knives. Many children have imaginative minds and like to customize their curtains with scissors when unsupervised. Always keep sharp items locked away and provide child-safety scissors—but only with supervision.

Use Labels and Signs

Placing visual labels on functional items like cabinets, closets, drawers, or bins is a great way for your child to get familiar with the home and know where to find items. This will help your child not engage in undesirable behaviors and understand what you expect. For example, if you place a visual sign on the stove that shows it’s hot and for cooking, your child is less likely to turn the stove on.

Safeguard Appliances and Electrical Outlets

You should secure electrical outlets and appliances when children crawl around the house. As your child ages, you have become less concerned about outlets. However, your child could face serious injuries from an electric shock. It’s essential to keep your outlets and appliances safe from your curious children. Placing plastic covers over the outlets and keeping your appliance cords out of reach is important.

Recognize What Prompts Wandering

It’s common for children with autism to wander or run. So, if your child walks or leaves without supervision, it’s important to place alarms and locks on your home’s windows and exterior doors. It would be best if you also learned what compels your child to wander. Often children will run or bolt if they’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed. A child may also wander away if they find something interesting. Always watch your child closely and pay attention to their actions.

Explain Stranger Danger

One of the most important safety tips for parents of children with autism is to prioritize communication and the risk of stranger danger. Finding ways your child can communicate that they’re in danger or they’re being approached by someone dangerous is critical. Act out scenarios with your child that teach them what to do when someone offers them a toy or candy.

Prioritizing your child’s safety is a must. We hope that you implement these tips into your daily life to keep your child secure and sound from all harm. At HANDS Center for Autism, we offer ABA therapy training for parents to help caregivers and parents communicate with their children effectively. If you need help communicating or supporting your child, contact us today. We’re always happy to help.