Emergency Readiness for Autistic Individuals: Evidence-Based Application of Visual Schedules

• By: Emily Germanis, BS, RBT Capella University
• September 15th, 2025
• emergency preparedness, Fall 2025 Issue, fire drills, hospital visits, sensory sensitivities, social stories, visual schedules
• 1077    0

Individuals with autism often experience heightened sensitivity to sensory input, difficulty with abstract concepts, and communication barriers, which can complicate emergency responses. Research indicates that children with autism have higher rates of emergency service utilization than their...

Helping Autistic Students Stay Calm During School Lockdowns and Drills

• By: Sajeeta Dhungana, MA, BCBA All Star ABA
• September 15th, 2025
• anxiety, emotional well-being, Fall 2025 Issue, family collaboration, fire drills, inclusive school environment, individualized education plans, school lockdowns, sensory overload, stress, visual supports
• 577    0

Emergency drills, such as fire drills, lockdowns, and active shooter simulations, are an important part of school safety. But for students on the autism spectrum, these events can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. The sudden loud noise, sensory overload, and unexpected changes can cause...