Drowning Prevention in the Autism Community: What Every Parent Should Know
- Philip McCrackin
- May 26
- 2 min read
At Waters of Wellness Family Medicine, our mission goes beyond treating illness—we aim to educate and empower families to take preventative action that can save lives. One of the most pressing, yet often overlooked, dangers facing families today is the risk of drowning in children with autism.
Why This Matters
According to the National Autism Association, drowning is the leading cause of death among children with autism. Many children on the spectrum are drawn to water, but may not understand its dangers. Additionally, wandering or “elopement” behavior is common, and when it occurs near pools, lakes, or ponds, the consequences can be tragic.
Watch the Webinar with Heather McCrackin, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
We are proud to share that our founder and provider, Heather McCrackin, was featured in a recent webinar presented by Action Behavior Centers, which highlights the urgent need for drowning prevention in the autism community.
In this free, must-watch webinar, you’ll learn:
Why children with autism are more vulnerable to drowning
What steps caregivers can take to reduce risk
How to teach water safety and swimming skills
The role of healthcare providers in community safety
Watch the full webinar here:
Heather speaks not only from her professional background but also from a place of deep compassion—sharing realistic, actionable guidance for families and caregivers.
Prevention Starts with Awareness
This isn’t just about medical knowledge—it’s about keeping our most vulnerable safe. We encourage all parents, educators, therapists, and healthcare professionals to watch and share this important conversation.
To learn more about how Waters of Wellness supports family-centered care, visit our website at www.wowfamilymedicine.com.
For additional information and scholarship opportunities for survival swim lessons visit
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