How to Use Visual Safety Tools to Support Kids with Autism

For many children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), visual supports are a powerful way to improve understanding, reduce anxiety, and encourage safe behaviors. Safety topics—like knowing when to stop, how to cross the street, or what to do in an emergency—can be overwhelming if explained only verbally. Visual safety tools help bridge that gap.

These tools work because they give kids something concrete to look at and refer back to, making safety instructions easier to understand, remember, and follow.

Why Visual Safety Tools Work

Children with ASD often process information more effectively when it’s presented visually. Instead of relying on auditory memory alone, visual supports create a consistent, tangible reminder of the safety rule or routine.

For example:

• A Stop Sign by the front door can remind a child not to leave without an adult.

• A Picture Sequence Card can show the steps for crossing a street.

• A Safety Chart can display emergency numbers or evacuation steps.

These tools help reduce misunderstandings, make transitions smoother, and give children a sense of independence while still keeping them safe.

Types of Visual Safety Tools

Here are some ideas for incorporating visual supports into your safety routines:

1. Signs and Symbols

   • Printable stop signs for doors or gates

   • Picture-based “Do Not Touch” labels for dangerous items

   • “Hot” and “Sharp” warning icons in the kitchen

     
     

2. Step-by-Step Guides

   • Photo or icon sequences showing the correct order of actions (e.g., “Look left – Look right – Walk with an adult”)

   • Visual fire escape maps with arrows

     
     

3. Social Stories

   • Illustrated stories that walk through a safety scenario, like what to do if you hear a smoke alarm

   • Available in printable, laminated, or digital formats

     
     

4. Emergency Information Cards

   • Cards with the child’s name, diagnosis, emergency contacts, and important medical info

   • Can be carried in a wallet, backpack, or worn on a lanyard

     
     

5. Checklists and Charts

   • Daily safety checklists for home or school

   • Travel safety lists for trips, outings, or vacations

How to Introduce and Use Visual Tools

1. Start Small — Introduce one visual at a time, so it becomes familiar and accepted.

2. Model and Practice — Show your child how to use it, then practice in real-life situations.

3. Place Strategically — Put signs and charts in spots where the safety behavior is needed.

4. Review Regularly — Check in and reinforce the meaning of each visual, especially after changes in environment or routine.

5. Involve Your Child — Let them help make or decorate the signs; this can increase engagement and buy-in.

Real-Life Example

When we first used laminated stop signs on our doors, my son wasn’t sure what they meant. We practiced together:

• I showed him the sign.

• We acted out the “Stop – Find Mom/Dad” routine.

• We repeated it until he could follow the rule independently.

Over time, the stop sign became a clear cue—no reminders needed.

Free and Paid Visual Safety Tools

You don’t have to start from scratch. Many free resources are available, and you can also find ready-made, customizable tools for specific safety needs. Check out our free printable Home Safety Starter Pack or our free printable Calling for Help Practice Kit.