Spectrum Alert: A Lifeline for Families with Autism in Florida

As parents and educators, a child’s safety is always our priority—especially for children on the autism spectrum. Florida has taken a powerful step forward with the introduction of the the Spectrum Alert, a statewide emergency system to locate missing children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This blog explores what the Spectrum Alert means for families and how the autism community can benefit from it.

What Is Spectrum Alert?

Florida’s House Bill 711 established the Spectrum Alert as a specialized emergency system for missing children with autism.

This innovation is designed to integrate with existing systems—like Amber, Silver, Purple, and Blue Alerts—but focuses solely on ASD-related emergencies. It particularly addresses the risk of elopement (wandering), which is a leading safety concern for children with autism.

How Spectrum Alert Works

1. Upon reporting a child with ASD missing—whether verbal or nonverbal—parents should specify that the child is on the autism spectrum and share any relevant communication preferences or swimming ability.

   
   

2. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), in collaboration with DOT, DHSMV, Department of Lottery, and local law enforcement, triggers the alert. They immediately notify:

   • Local media outlets

   • All on-duty officers

   • Neighboring counties

   • Digital signage on highways

   • Lottery terminals across the state

     
     

3. A mandatory training program equips responders with the skills to recognize ASD-specific behaviors, apply de-escalation techniques, and engage with empathy.

Why the Spectrum Alert Matters for Families

Speed and Sensitivity Are Critical. When children with ASD wander—especially toward water—seconds count. Drowning is the leading cause of death among these children, and Florida ranks fifth nationally in autism-related drownings.

The Spectrum Alert helps rescue efforts become both faster and smarter, ensuring first responders understand and respect ASD behaviors—whether a child is sensory-seeking, nonverbal, or reluctant to engage with authority figures.

One Delray Beach mother put it poignantly: "In a matter of minutes, your child could be found in an unresponsive situation... This alert system is critical."

The Spectrum Alert represents much more than a notification system—it’s a proactive, life-saving mechanism tailored to the unique needs of children with ASD. It pairs speed with sensitivity and sends a strong message: Florida values and protects its children on the spectrum.

By educating and equipping our families, Connections can help make sure that the Spectrum Alert saves lives—and strengthens trust between families, first responders, and the broader community.