Keep Me Safe Toolkit
The Keep Me Safe Toolkit from University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s is designed for children who have a tendency to wander off from safe environments and have a lack of ability to see danger or stay safe.
There are three main types of wandering:
- Goal-directed: Wandering with the purpose of getting somewhere or obtaining something (water, train tracks, park, an item or place they like, etc.)
- Bolting/fleeing: Quickly running or leaving with the intent to get away from something; this may be caused by stress, fear, excitement, an uncomfortable or undesirable situation, or sensory stimuli.
- Other: Wandering due to confusion, disorientation, boredom or being lost.
The toolkit will give you strategies and steps to help you create a safety plan for your child. This is not meant to include everything you need to know; rather, it is a starting point to begin planning for your child’s safety.*
What Is Included with the Toolkit?
Your Keep Me Safe Toolkit includes:
- Red safety alert wristband: This is a safety alert bracelet made of silicone. Some children may not feel comfortable wearing this, in which case it can be secured on or in a bag they may carry.
- Mini window alarm: This alarm can be used on windows and doors or cabinets. Batteries are included. Follow the directions included to install and check the batteries frequently, at a minimum every six months.
- Shoe ID tag: Attach to the top of your child’s shoes using their shoe laces to provide identification for your child.
- Temporary ID tattoos: These are good to use when you take your child to a public or crowded place. Write your contact information in the blank area.
- Window cling: Peel off the cover and place them on the inside of windows at the front of your house where first responders might see them.
- Stop signs: These act as a reminder to your child to stop before going out a door or window. Place on exterior doors or windows or any items in the house that may be of danger (e.g. stove).
- Noise reduction headphones: These are helpful in reducing sensitivity to loud noises. To use, place over ears and adjust to fit.
Additional Resources
The following safety resources are available for download:
Wandering Emergency Plan
Create an emergency plan in case your child goes missing, including key contacts and phone numbers.
Safety Checklist
Have you implemented appropriate safety protocols and plans in the event that your child wanders off? Use our safety checklist to make sure.
Emergency Alert Form
Fill out this form with important information about your child, such as physical characteristics, behavioral and communication issues, medications and other relevant details.
Teacher / Caregiver Letter
This form letter can be filled out and given to a teacher/caregiver to provide information about your child’s wandering tendencies and ways to keep them safe.
List of Resources
Resources include local, regional and national websites dedicated to child safety, children with developmental disorders, and missing children.
*All materials in this Keep Me Safe Toolkit are provided for your information only and do not constitute medical advice or an endorsement of any clinical or therapeutic method, treatment, service, safety device, safety product, organization or vendor. The National Autism Association and the UH Rainbow Safety Store are not responsible for the content produced by, or the services rendered by, any third party that is referenced via this toolkit. Be sure to consult with your child’s healthcare providers concerning the use of this toolkit.