Understanding Elopement: Risks, Reasons, and Prevention
What is Elopement?
Elopement is when a person, often a child, leaves a safe environment by themselves without permission. It can be particularly dangerous for a child who struggles with communication and who doesn’t understand the safety risks. This could mean running away from a parent or caregiver at the park, in the store, at school, or escaping from home. According to an article from Relias, “nearly 50% of individuals with ASD [Autism Spectrum Disorder] have attempted to or have successfully eloped from a known adult”.
Key Statistics
A National Autism Association study found that nearly half of wandering incidents happen under the watch of non-parent caregivers, including schools, daycares, and respite programs.
One-third of elopement incidents occur from school settings (source: Pediatrics journal).
Over one-third of autistic children who elope are rarely or never able to communicate identifying information like their name or address.
40% of parents report disrupted sleep due to anxiety over potential elopement.
Between 2009 and 2011, 91% of accidental deaths in autistic children aged 14 and under following elopement were due to drowning according to another study done the National Autism Association.
In that same report, 32% of families said they had experienced a “close call” related to water safety.
Why Do Children and Adults Elope?
Sensory overload: Loud noises, crowded places, or overwhelming environments can cause distress, prompting the individual to run in search of relief.
Routine disruptions: Changes in daily schedules can lead to anxiety, prompting a child to seek familiarity, even if that means leaving a safe space.
Attraction to specific items or places: A favorite playground, pet, or person might be the target of a spontaneous elopement.
Exploration or curiosity: Some individuals simply enjoy walking or exploring, not realizing the risks involved.
Communication challenges: When individuals can’t express a need or discomfort verbally, they might try to escape the situation physically.
Understanding the “why” behind the behavior is key to finding the right prevention approach.
How to Prevent Elopement
Elopement prevention isn’t about restriction, it’s about creating a safe, structured environment and teaching safety skills. Here are several practical steps caregivers and educators can take:
Secure Your Home
Install door and window alarms to alert you if someone exists.
Use window restrictors to prevent a window from fully opening so someone can slip out.
Use visual cues like a stop sign on exits to reinforce boundaries.
Practice Water Safety
Install a pool fence with lock if you own a pool
Enroll your child in swim lessons
Create a routine of asking permission and checking in with a trusted adult before entering any water source.
Wear Bright, Easily Identifiable Colors
Dress your child in bright, distinctive clothing when going into public spaces.
You’ll often see pictures of our Hand in Hand participants in bright yellow colored Hand in Hand shirts when we go on field trips out in the community. This makes them easier to spot in a crowd and quickly located if separated from the group.
Teach Safety Skills
Reinforce basic concepts like “stop,” “wait,” and “stay with me.”
Practice road safety and crossing procedures during daily walks.
Role-play scenarios involving stranger awareness and asking for help.
Teach your child how to share personal identification information (even non-verbal options like ID bracelets or cards).
Use Identification Tools
Use wearable ID bracelets or GPS tracking devices for children who elope frequently or have limited communication.
Consider temporary tattoos or sewn-in labels for events or large outings.
Communicate With Others
Make sure neighbors, teachers, and caregivers are aware of any elopement risk.
Create and share an emergency response plan, including photos and contact info.
Encourage a team approach, where everyone working with the child is aligned on routines and expectations.
Elopement is a serious concern, especially for families of individuals with autism or developmental delays. But with preparation, vigilance, and the right support strategies, it is possible to reduce the risks and keep children safe.
If you're part of a caregiving team, school, or community organization, raising awareness and investing in prevention tools makes a big difference. At Hand in Hand, we prioritize safety on every outing, in every classroom, and throughout every daily routine. Together, we can help kids stay safe, seen, and supported.