Applied ABC Launches National Community Safety Initiative for Children with Autism

MANCHESTER, N.H., Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Applied ABC has launched a National Community Safety Initiative for Children with Autism, beginning with a series of events at its Manchester, NH center. The initiative is designed to help children and families build trust with first responders while practicing vital emergency preparedness skills in supportive, sensory-friendly environments.

National studies show that nearly half of children with autism attempt to wander or bolt from supervised, safe environments, and among those, many go missing long enough to cause serious concern. In a six-year review of media-reported cases, almost one-third of such incidents ended in death or required medical treatment, with drowning and traffic injuries among the leading causes.

By partnering with local police and fire departments, Applied ABC is turning these sobering statistics into action. The organization's goal is to increase safety awareness nationwide, reduce risks for children with autism, and provide families with hands-on learning experiences that could one day save lives.

The first event, hosted at Applied ABC's Manchester center, featured Manchester Police's comfort mini horse, Milly. Alongside the animal interaction, Officer Brianna Miano guided children through practical lessons—what to say if they are lost, how to safely approach police, and what information is most important to share.

Soon after, the Manchester Fire Department visited the center for a Touch-a-Truck and Fire Safety Day, where children explored emergency vehicles, listened to fire alarms in a sensory-friendly setting, and practiced responding to firefighters in full gear, including facemasks. The goal was to help children feel more confident and less afraid in real-world emergencies.

"Safety education is critical for the families we serve," said Kayla Poulin, NH Center Director for Applied ABC. "By bringing police and fire departments directly into our programming, we're helping children with autism gain familiarity and skills that could one day save lives."

Applied ABC has committed to continuing these events, with another Fire Department Safety Day already scheduled for October.

For more information about Applied ABC's services, visit www.appliedabc.com.

About Applied ABC
Applied ABC is a leading provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy services, supporting children with autism and their families across the United States. With a focus on accessibility, clinical excellence, and family empowerment, Applied ABC partners with communities to help children achieve their full potential through home-based, center-based, and school-based therapy.

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SOURCE Applied ABC