Home Safety for Children with Autism

Most parents childproof for the first few years and then their child develops, matures and no longer needs the safety precautions. However, for many parents of children in the autism spectrum this isn't the case.

As a parent of an autistic child the safety concerns continue. Think about the many things an individual with autism may engage in that could be unsafe: throwing utensils, breaking plates and cups, sweeping items off surfaces, dumping drawers and bins, and climbing out of or breaking windows. Or consider what can happen when natural curiosity and household appliances converge: putting things in appliances, flushing things toilet, touching burners, turning on hot faucets, inserting things into electrical outlets, and crawling in a washer or dryer. Finally, think about the potential dangers that can result from playing with matches, lighters or fire.

Home Safety for Children with Autism-Arrange the Furniture Appropriately
Arrange the furniture in a way that correlates with the activities that will be done there. If a child normally runs out of the room a certain way, then arrange things to try and block this path.

Home Safety for Children with Autism-Use Locks Where Appropriate
The locking of interior and exterior doors needs to be done in a manner that does not limit the parents getting the family out in case of an emergency. Some parents feel safer locking the child in their room at night so they can't wander around and possibly get hurt. This also needs to be done in a fashion with easy access in case of an emergency. Cabinets and drawers can be locked with plastic latches that are readily available in most stores.

Home Safety for Children with Autism-Window Safety
Place locks on all the accessible windows. Also if your child likes to bang or break glass, replace the glass with Plexiglas.

Home Safety for Children with Autism-Safeguard all Appliances and Electrical Outlets
Use socket covers and secure wires for appliances. Use plastic knob covers for doors, faucets, and stove burners.

Secure all poisonous items well out of the child's reach Be sure and keep the poison control center number near the phone in case of any emergencies.

Home Safety for Children with Autism-Secure utensils and dishes
If your child throws or sweeps objects off surfaces it is best to use plastic utensils and dishes.

Home Safety for Children with Autism-Fire safety
Always keep matches and lighters out of reach. Remove knobs from stoves and ovens to keep the child from being able to turn them on. Never leave a child unattended near any kind of stove or fireplace with an open flame.

Home Safety for Children with Autism-Consider Identification Options
An ID bracelet or tags in clothes are good options in case your child ever gets lost and can't communicate.

These safety precautions may seem extreme to some people, but the child's safety is the most important thing. As parent's we know our children better than anyone else and can make good judgment calls when it comes to these matters. Trust your instincts and do what you believe is needed for your child's safety.

Sources:

Keeping your Autistic Child Safe