Autism database to help police, parents

Windsor police and parents are teaming up to help find family members with autism when they wander away from home.

Police are developing a database to store information voluntarily provided by parents, including a photograph and personal details of the children.

David Heimann, who will manage the database, said officers will have immediate access to the child's routines, favourite places, and potential triggers.

The database should be in place by the end of July, he said.

Michelle Helou, with the local branch of Autism Services Inc., said the registry will provide peace of mind to parents and will benefit police.

"I've had personal experience in the past where my son has had a meltdown and police have arrived thinking there was a domestic disturbance. They were not educated on it," Helou said. "If something does happen in a home, they'll know right away that there is a child or individual with autism."

Thereare at least 2,800 people with autism in the Windsor area.