26/10/2026
Great advice here from An Garda Síochána Kerry
🚨 MISSING AUTISTIC PERSON? CALL 999 IMMEDIATELY 🚨
If an autistic child or adult goes missing, call 999 immediately and tell Gardaí that the missing person is autistic.
💙 Why is this important?
Gardaí can use a separate pro forma with specific questions to gather information that may be particularly relevant when searching for an autistic person.
The information provided can help Gardaí understand the individual’s needs, communication style, behaviours, interests and other important details that may assist in the search.
💙 BE PREPARED: CREATE A FAMILY EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
Please don’t wait until an emergency happens. Having a plan in place can save valuable time.
✅ Create a family response plan outlining what to do immediately if your autistic family member goes missing.
✅ Share a copy of the plan with all family members, carers, support workers and anyone regularly responsible for their care.
✅ Make a list of places they are likely to go, based on their individual interests, routines, habits and previous experiences.
⚠️ Identify specific locations to check urgently, including:
* 🌊 Nearby ponds, lakes, rivers, canals and other bodies of water.
* 🏊 Swimming pools, leisure centres and other aquatic facilities.
* 🚆 Train stations, railway lines and transport hubs.
* 🚌 Bus stations and familiar transport routes.
* 🌳 Nearby parks, wooded areas, fields and playgrounds.
* 🛍️ Familiar shops, shopping centres and favourite places.
* ❤️ Any other locations the person is particularly drawn to or has visited before.
Be as specific as possible. Write down the names and exact locations of nearby places, including potential hazards. This helps everyone understand which locations are important to communicate to Gardaí immediately.
⚠️ Do not delay contacting Gardaí while checking these locations yourself. Tell Gardaí about any nearby water, railway lines or other hazards so they can assess and coordinate the search. Do not put yourself or others at risk.
✅ Keep essential information ready, including a recent photograph, a physical description, clothing worn, communication needs, sensory needs, medical considerations where relevant, and details of places the person may seek out.
💙 Preparation matters. A clear plan shared with everyone involved in the person’s care can reduce confusion and help people respond quickly during a frightening and stressful emergency.
📢 Please share this post. It could help a family be better prepared when every second counts.
