Chrystal Venator has implemented several security measures in her residence to ensure her son’s safety. These measures include surveillance cameras, special locks on doors, and a bell alerting her to any movement at the front door. These precautions are not aimed at keeping outsiders away but rather at preventing her son, Stalen, who is autistic and non-verbal, from wandering off unsupervised. Venator expressed concern about Stalen’s lack of awareness of potential dangers, emphasizing the importance of constant vigilance.
Following the tragic death of Parker Wells, an 11-year-old autistic boy from Calgary, Venator was deeply affected, recognizing the potential risks her own family faces due to similar circumstances. She joined the Indigo Alert Initiative, a national campaign that advocates for a public emergency system to be activated when a vulnerable individual goes missing, without any abduction involved.
Venator highlighted the critical need for a swift response when vulnerable individuals, including those with autism, dementia, or other cognitive impairments, wander off. The Indigo Alert petition has garnered significant support nationwide, with over 38,000 signatures and backing from political leaders. The initiative aims to address the gaps in existing alert systems and ensure quick action in such emergencies.
Breanna Mazerolle, another parent with an autistic child prone to wandering, launched the Every Minute Matters initiative to advocate for better local emergency preparedness for cases involving missing vulnerable individuals. She stressed the importance of effective alert systems and community training to enhance search efforts and ultimately save lives.
Studies have shown that wandering poses a significant risk to children with autism, with a heightened drowning risk compared to the general pediatric population. Despite the lack of specific data on wandering incidents in New Brunswick, there is a recognized gap in national data regarding autistic children’s wandering behaviors across Canada.
Venator finds reassurance in a 24-hour tracking bracelet worn by her son as part of Project Lifesaver, which utilizes radio frequency transmitters for quick location tracking. While tracking devices like these have proven effective in search operations, they may not be suitable for everyone, particularly individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Advocates stress the importance of public education alongside tracking devices and emergency alerts to enhance safety measures for vulnerable individuals. Jason Lai from the Autism Alliance of Canada emphasizes the need for policymakers to engage with community-led initiatives to develop a comprehensive safety framework that promotes inclusion and public understanding.
As efforts for improved protection of vulnerable individuals continue, advocates encourage active engagement with policymakers to drive meaningful change and enhance safety measures for those at risk.