The Dangers of Water & Autism: Understanding the Risk and Prioritizing Water Safety

It may not be the first thing on your mind when you think of a new autism diagnosis in your family, but there is a large danger for children with autism.

Water safety is a real concern for families of children with autism. Drowning is a leading cause of death for individuals with autism, largely due to elopement (AKA the tendency to wander away from safe environments).

Let's talk about the risks of drowning and steps you can take to help protect individuals with autism from water-related dangers.

Why Are Individuals with Autism at Higher Risk of Drowning?

Research shows that individuals with autism are at a significantly higher risk of drowning compared to the general population. Studies indicate that nearly 50% of children with autism engage in elopement behavior, often driven by sensory interests, curiosity, or the desire to escape overwhelming environments (Anderson et al., 2012). Unfortunately, bodies of water, such as pools, lakes, and rivers, are common attractants, increasing the likelihood of accidental drowning.

A report from the National Autism Association (2017) found that 91% of deaths in children with autism under the age of 14 were due to drowning following elopement. This alarming statistic underscores the importance of proactive water safety measures.

Top Autism Water Safety Strategies for Parents

1. Teach Water Safety Early

Introducing children with autism to swimming lessons as early as possible can be life-saving. Programs that offer adaptive swimming lessons cater to the unique needs of children with autism, focusing on water safety, floating techniques, and responding to emergencies. We also recommend recurring swim lessons once or twice a week for several months to give the child time to adapt to their new skills, instead of clustered ones that last a week (as is commonly offered at public pools and rec centers in Utah).

2. Secure All Water Hazards

Parents and caregivers should ensure that pools and other water bodies are properly secured. Cover pools with firm covers (not fabric ones), or fence off the area. Removing toys from the pool area can also help reduce a child's temptation to wander toward the water.

3. Use Identification and Tracking Devices

It is common for children with autism to not respond to their name or recognize danger. To help with this, parents may choose to start using GPS tracking devices and medical ID bracelets. This can help locate a child quickly if elopement occurs. Notifying neighbors (that you trust) about a child’s risk of wandering can create a community of awareness and support.

4. Supervise at All Times

Active supervision is crucial. Even children who have learned to swim should always be monitored around water. Drowning can happen quickly and silently, making constant vigilance essential.

5. Develop an Emergency Action Plan

Families should have a plan in place in case of an emergency. This includes knowing CPR, training family members and caregivers on emergency response, and practicing water rescue drills.

Water safety is an essential part of autism care. By implementing preventative strategies such as early swim training, securing water hazards, and ensuring supervision, caregivers can significantly reduce the risks associated with elopement and drowning. At Nova Supports, we encourage families to prioritize water safety and seek out local resources that provide specialized water safety training for individuals with autism.

In the near future, Nova Supports is hoping to provide autism water safety training to children and adults with autism. Keep up with Nova's new clinic openings on our website.

For more information on water safety and autism, visit the following resources:

• National Autism Association: www.nationalautismassociation.org

• Autism Speaks Water Safety Guide: www.autismspeaks.org

• American Red Cross Swim Programs: www.redcross.org

By spreading awareness and taking action, we can work together to protect individuals with autism from the dangers of water-related accidents.