March 2nd, 2026
Dear Channel 12 News and Editors,
We are writing on behalf of readers who rely on accurate, science-backed reporting about evidenced-based treatment for autism. Your recent article, “Tracking devices and statewide alerts offer hope for autism community”, draws attention to an issue that is both urgent and important and we would like to highlight it. Families caring for autistic children who wander face real and ongoing safety concerns, and your article highlights several options that may help prevent tragedies related to wandering and elopement.
Your article thoughtfully described programs like Project Lifesaver and the upcoming Spectrum Alert system, both of which can support faster response times when a child elopes and a family member is trying to find them. Project Lifesaver provides a small wearable tracking device that helps trained first responders quickly locate an individual who has wandered, often cutting search time dramatically. The Spectrum Alert system, still in development, would notify local law enforcement and community members when an autistic person is reported missing, helping mobilize coordinated searches more swiftly. The article also mentioned the Big Red Safety Box, a free kit that includes door alarms, visual stop signs, and practical safety materials that caregivers of autistic individuals could use to make their homes potentially more secure and reduce the risk of elopement episodes. The tools shared within the article may be helpful for families who face wandering concerns, and could also be helpful to educate the general public to increase awareness that these products exist and what they can be used for.
In addition to what the article shared, there are two areas where further information could be beneficial. First, research has demonstrated that wandering among autistic children may be influenced by factors such as sensory needs, anxiety, or difficulty recognizing danger (Child Mind Institute, 2025). This additional information might assist the general public in better understanding that wandering is not the result of inattentive parenting, but rather a behavior pattern that requires informed planning and methodical support. Second, while tracking devices and alert systems can be lifesaving, readers may benefit from awareness that science-based behavioral strategies have also been shown to reduce wandering risk. Approaches grounded in applied behavior analysis (ABA), individualized safety planning, in addition to environmental supports, have a strong evidence base for supporting autistic individuals and their families, specific to elopement issues and concerns.
Thank you for your attention to this important topic and for your work in keeping families informed and safe. Your reporting on autism safety issues plays an important role in public understanding of both the risks associated with wandering and the practical supports available to prevent harm when an incident occurs. By integrating and highlighting evidence-based prevention strategies alongside technology-focused environment supports, increased support and guidance are available for families, educators, and first responders to make informed decisions when elopement is an area of concern for an autistic individual.
Sincerely,
Zaliyna Hina, ASAT Extern
Reva Mathieu, EdD, BCBA
Association for Science in Autism Treatment
Reference:
https://childmind.org/article/autism-plus-wandering/
