Autism Safety Story: The Day I Ran Barefoot to Save a Child

Autism Safety Story: The Day I Ran Barefoot to Save a Child | Zula Autism Mart

Autism Safety Story: The Day I Ran Barefoot to Save a Child

Some stories stay with you forever. This one still gives me chills.

I was serving as the CEO of LegacyATM.com at the time, focused on numbers, meetings, and growth. But one afternoon, all that mattered was a single child — a five-year-old girl, diagnosed at Level 3 on the autism spectrum. I was helping watch her for just a short while when something happened that I’ll never forget.

Child standing near an open front door with sunlight streaming in, symbolizing autism safety awareness and the importance of vigilance

It Happened in Seconds

She had been calm just moments before — drawing quietly, humming softly. I turned away for less than a minute. When I looked back, the front door was wide open. My stomach dropped.

She had somehow managed to unlock two difficult locks — locks that most adults would struggle with — and there wasn’t even a chair nearby to climb on. She was gone.

I sprinted to the door, heart pounding, scanning the yard and the street. I didn’t even think. I ran barefoot into the heat, the asphalt burning through my soles. I had thrown on whatever clothes were closest — mismatched, ridiculous — none of that mattered. I just ran.

After a few seconds that felt like hours, I spotted her in the distance — a tiny figure running toward a busy road. When I caught up and laid my hand gently on her shoulder, she turned, eyes black with fear and confusion, and screamed. In that moment, I saw not defiance, but pure panic — a nervous system overloaded, a little girl trying to escape a world that was too loud.

Caregiver kneeling beside a child near a doorway, illustrating safety, compassion, and autism awareness

A Cautionary Tale for Every Caregiver

This happened in less than sixty seconds. One minute she was safe inside — the next, she was steps away from danger. It’s something every parent, teacher, and caregiver of a child dealing with autism needs to understand: elopement can happen without warning.

According to the National Autism Association, nearly half of children on the spectrum attempt to wander or elope from safe settings. Many do so silently, often drawn toward water or roads. Awareness and prevention can mean the difference between fear and tragedy.

How to Strengthen Safety at Home

If you’re caring for a child who may wander, here are proven ways to make your home safer without creating fear:

  • Install high locks and door alarms: Place locks well above a child’s reach, and use inexpensive magnetic or sensor alarms that sound when doors or windows open.
  • Use visual stop signs: Bright red “STOP” signs near exits can remind children where boundaries are.
  • Secure outdoor areas: Fencing, gates, and locked yards give a buffer of time and safety.
  • Alert neighbors and local responders: Provide trusted neighbors and local police with your child’s photo and contact info — they’ll respond faster if they know.
  • Teach safety gradually: Practice stopping at doors, crossing streets, and staying near adults with positive reinforcement — never fear.
  • Use tracking tools: GPS bracelets or wearable devices can alert caregivers if a child wanders beyond a set range.

What I Learned That Day

I learned that vigilance isn’t paranoia — it’s love in action. I learned how quickly a child can slip past even the best precautions. And I learned that sharing stories like this can save lives.

That day changed me. I realized that awareness isn’t enough; we need preparation, compassion, and tools that truly support families living this reality every day.

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About the Author

Daniel Jacob Read IV
CEO & Founder – Zula Autism Mart
Father, caregiver, and advocate for autism awareness and sensory-safe living.

Design & Copyright

© 2025 Zula Autism Mart. All rights reserved.
Blog design and visuals by Daniel Jacob Read IV.
Reproduction or redistribution without written permission is prohibited.

Labels: autism safety, child elopement, autism parenting, home security, sensory awareness, Zula Autism Mart

Location: Dalton, GA, USA

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