Chrystal Venator has implemented a range of security measures at her residence, including surveillance cameras, specialized door locks, and a doorbell to monitor activity. These precautions are not meant to keep strangers out but to prevent her 11-year-old son, Stalen, who is autistic and non-verbal, from wandering off unexpectedly. Stalen’s lack of awareness of safety concerns poses a constant risk, as Venator highlighted the swift nature of potential incidents, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance.
The tragic case of 11-year-old Parker Wells, an autistic and non-verbal boy who went missing in Calgary and was later found deceased, deeply affected Venator. The incident underscored the ongoing fear and reality she faces daily with her own son’s safety.
Subsequently, Venator joined the Indigo Alert Initiative, a national campaign initiated following Parker’s death. The initiative aims to establish a public emergency system similar to the Amber Alert but activated when a vulnerable individual goes missing without an abduction involved.
Venator stressed the critical need for a quick response in such situations, as time is of the essence. The Indigo Alert petition has garnered over 38,000 signatures nationwide, with political leaders expressing support for the initiative.
Jennifer Ball, the national director of Indigo Alert Canada, mentioned efforts to engage with the New Brunswick government to expand the initiative’s reach. While acknowledging the existing alert systems in place, provincial government spokesperson Bruce Macfarlane affirmed openness to new ideas for enhancing emergency response protocols.
Venator’s proactive approach aligns with other parents like Breanna Mazerolle, whose autistic son also has a tendency to wander. Mazerolle launched the Every Minute Matters initiative in response to gaps in local emergency preparedness, emphasizing the importance of timely and effective response strategies for vulnerable individuals.
Studies have highlighted the risks associated with wandering among autistic children, with drowning being a significant concern. Despite the lack of specific data in New Brunswick, concerns persist regarding the safety of vulnerable children who may wander off.
Venator finds reassurance in a 24-hour tracking bracelet worn by her son as part of the Project Lifesaver program, which utilizes radio frequency transmitters for quick location identification. However, not all individuals can benefit from wearable devices due to sensory sensitivities, underscoring the need for diverse solutions tailored to individual needs.
Advocates stress the importance of public education alongside tracking devices and emergency alerts to enhance community understanding and response to such incidents. Jonathan Lai from the Autism Alliance of Canada emphasizes the need for policymakers to engage with community-led initiatives to foster safety, inclusion, and coordination efforts.
As efforts continue to improve response systems for autistic children and other vulnerable groups, advocates urge active engagement with political leaders to drive meaningful change and enhance the safety of individuals in need.