Some information is with mum and some with Care Home but I feel this important to have with me too and so going to organize a file for my son
Grandma has it all in a binder
I just took a regular note book and wrote my son's medical information. I listed all his doctors phone numbers . All medication and foods he likes to eat. And some other important things that should be known about him.
https://www.autismspeaks.org/tool-kit/autism-sa...
autism emergency file—or "Go-Bag" document—is a critical tool for medical, behavioral, or wandering emergencies. It immediately communicates communication methods, sensory needs, and co-occurring conditions to first responders and medical staff, preventing unnecessary distress or delayed care.
Key Components to IncludeYour emergency file should be updated regularly and kept in an easily accessible, waterproof bag near the door or in your vehicle. Be sure to include the following sections:Identification & Contacts: Full legal name, date of birth, photo, emergency contacts, and primary care physician.Diagnosis & Medical History: A clear statement of the autism diagnosis, plus any co-occurring conditions (e.g., epilepsy, GI disorders) and allergies.
Communication Style: Specify whether the individual is verbal, non-verbal, uses an AAC device, or relies on picture communication.Sensory Triggers & Pain Response: Note over/under-sensitivities to light, sound, and touch. Mention if the individual has an atypical pain response (e.g., high pain tolerance) or if certain medical equipment causes distress.De-escalation & Coping Strategies: List specific calming techniques, preferred items, and calming sensory tools. Note behaviors to expect during a meltdown (e.g., bolting, stimming, vocal tics) so staff understand it is not intentional aggression.
Actionable Templates & ToolsYou do not need to build your emergency file from scratch. Several authoritative organizations offer printable templates you can customize:Autism Speaks Autism Safety Kit: Provides printable elopement alert forms and guidance for first responders.Adult Autism Health Resources Medical Emergencies Plan: Tools and tips specifically tailored for autistic adults and mental health emergencies.Autism Photo Medical ID with Emergency Contacts (Amazon): A physical, wallet-sized photo ID card to quickly alert responders in the community.Smart911 Profile: In Rockville and surrounding Maryland areas, you can create a free, secure Smart911 safety profile that instantly displays your family's specific needs to 911 dispatchers County area, it can also be highly beneficial to contact your County Police and Fire Departments directly to let them know a family member with autism lives at your address.Could you tell me a little more about the individual this file is for? Knowing their communication level, primary medical/behavioral needs, or if you are looking to prevent wandering versus prepare for hospital visits will help me suggest the most appropriate tools.
What a great idea to put together a health and emergency information file for your son! Having everything in one place can make a real difference, especially in stressful moments when you need information quickly.
Here are some things to consider including in the file:
- Medical history – diagnoses, past treatments, and Show Full Answer