Press Release  Massachusetts Launches Campaign to Prevent Drowning Deaths Among Children with Autism

BOSTON — As summer begins, the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and Office of the Child Advocate (OCA), in collaboration with other state agencies, have launched a new Autism, Wandering & Water Safety awareness campaign focused on drowning prevention and emergency preparation for children with autism. The safety campaign includes a dedicated webpage mass.gov/AutismWaterSafety, with tools and strategies to help prevent these deaths.

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children with autism. Research shows that up to 50 percent of children with Autism may leave a safe environment without telling anyone—a behavior known as “wandering,” “elopement,” or “bolting.” This can occur for a variety of reasons, including trying to get something they want or like, trying to escape overwhelming feelings or sensations, or simply exploring their surroundings. Unfortunately, children with Autism are often drawn to water linking wandering behaviors with drowning and making timely prevention essential.

“Our number one goal is to avoid preventable tragedies, and that is what this public information campaign does,” said Department of Developmental Services Commissioner Sarah Peterson. “We can help support families in keeping their children safe through increased awareness and layered prevention strategies.”

“This campaign reflects our shared responsibility to protect children with Autism by raising awareness, promoting preparation, and strengthening safety nets,” said Maria Mossaides, the Child Advocate for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Resources across the state are available to reduce the risk of wandering and to help communicate quickly with emergency responders, zero-interest loans for home modifications like fences, financial support for tracking bracelets, and 911 disability indicator forms.

To support families, educators, and service providers, the webpage mass.gov/AutismWaterSafety—includes resources such as:

• Prevention strategies for wandering and emergency planning
• Tips for providers and educators to promote water safety
• Guidance for first responders
• Links to safety modification kits and financial help.

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