Northville Township has change up how it collects, and keeps data to speed up potentially live-saving efforts when it comes to missing, or run-away, children with autism.
Parents of a child with autism who wish to participate can download a form that includes information about their child ranging from a photo to details on preferred method of communication and hiding spots they frequent.
The difference between the old method and new method has to do with real-time access — Northville Township PD will now be equipped with a cloud-based app that allows officers in the field to access information when time is of the essence.
The software also allows parents to map locations of water nearby their homes including pools, ponds and swampy areas. Many individuals on the autism spectrum are naturally drawn to water, and some are unable to understand the dangers associated with it. Mapping water allows the department to dispatch officers more quickly to crucial locations that could pose an imminent danger to a missing child.
“When my son wandered away from our home it seemed like it took forever,” said Sgt. David Roberts, a detective with Northville Township Police Department.
Roberts, who also has a non-verbal son with autism, said he realized the need for change a few years ago when his son went missing. He ended up being found near a lake.
“This allows us to have that information prior to arrival,” said Lt. Paul Tennies, “It allows us to deploy our resources more efficient and effectively.”
In the past forms that were collected from parents were stores in paper file. Theoretically it was a good first step, but it failed to have information available as quickly as the new digital system to allow for real-time access.
Parents of children with autism in the Northville Township area can download the fillable pdf form by visiting www.northvillemich.com and selecting the forms tab on the homepage.
