Скачать или смотреть Prepare for Autism Elopement Emergencies

Meet Commissioner Scott Schulte of Sullivan County, whose leadership is helping change how communities prepare for autism elopement emergencies.

This video highlights a real-world autism elopement search-and-rescue drill, where first responders trained under realistic conditions to locate a missing individual with autism. These exercises were conducted both with and without Project Lifesaver tracking technology, reflecting the situations responders face in real emergencies.

This is more than a drill — it is a call to action.

These first responders represent the very best of humanity — choosing preparation, compassion, and service to protect children who cannot always protect themselves.

Every first responder should have the opportunity to learn and practice coordinated response strategies for individuals with autism and other high-risk wandering populations. Training like this will save lives.

Hosted by The Center for Discovery®, a nationally recognized leader in innovative care for individuals with complex needs, this drill demonstrates what is possible when leadership, preparation, and collaboration come together. Once again, what happens at The Center for Discovery matters everywhere.

Why This Matters
Elopement (wandering) remains one of the most serious safety risks for individuals with autism. Too often, first responders are asked to respond without prior training or coordination. Practiced response — before a crisis — changes outcomes.

Call to Action
If you are a:
• First responder
• Emergency services leader
• Parent or caregiver
• School or residential program administrator
• Policy maker

Advocate for autism-specific search-and-rescue training in your community. Encourage drills that bring agencies together before an emergency occurs.

Preparedness is prevention.
Practice saves lives.