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NewsNBC 6 South FloridaJuly 2, 2026Florida

Florida Launches New 'Spectrum Alert' for Missing Children with Autism

Florida has introduced the 'Spectrum Alert,' a new emergency notification system specifically designed to help locate missing children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The program aims to address the high risk of wandering and potential dangers, such as drowning, associated with children on the spectrum.

public safetyautismemergency alertsFloridachild welfare
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Why It Matters

Starting July 1, 2025, law enforcement agencies in Florida have a new tool to broadcast emergency information to the public when a child with autism goes missing, potentially increasing the speed of recovery efforts.

Key Facts

  • The Spectrum Alert officially launched on July 1, 2025.
  • The alert is specifically designed to assist in the search for missing children with autism spectrum disorder.
  • The Spectrum Alert is now one of six total emergency alert systems utilized in Florida.
  • Data from the Children Service Council of Palm Beach County indicates 38 children with autism or suspected autism drowned in Florida in 2025.
  • The Florida Department of Law Enforcement cites a higher rate of wandering among children with autism as the primary reason for the new alert.
  • The alert system is intended to mitigate risks such as fatal traffic accidents and drownings, which the FDLE notes are common dangers for children who wander.

Who's Mentioned

organizationFlorida Department of Law Enforcement“The state agency responsible for implementing and managing the new alert system.”organizationChildren Service Council of Palm Beach County“Provided data regarding the number of drowning incidents involving children with”