Indiana neighborhoods contain thousands of retention ponds used for stormwater management. While necessary, many are located in residential areas without fencing, gates, or barriers. Children with autism spectrum disorder are at higher risk of elopement (wandering), and water is a known attraction and danger in these situations.
When a child wanders near an unfenced retention pond, there is often no time to react before tragedy occurs. These ponds are often deep, steep-sided, and difficult to exit once entered, making them especially dangerous for small children.

These incidents are devastating because they are often preventable. Families should not have to live with constant fear of nearby hazards in their own neighborhoods. Simple safety measures such as fencing, controlled access gates, and warning signage can significantly reduce risk while preserving the purpose of stormwater systems.

This is not about eliminating retention ponds. It is about making them safer when they are located near where children live, play, and go to school. 

We are calling for Indiana to adopt policies requiring: 

Tracking & keeping statistics on water related autism deaths in Indiana
Protective fencing or barriers around retention ponds in high-risk areas
Controlled or locked maintenance access gates
Safety standards for new residential and commercial developments
Local authority review of existing ponds near homes, schools, parks, and childcare facilities
Optional state or local grant support for retrofitting older sites 

Sign this petition if you believe Indiana should take reasonable steps to prevent avoidable tragedies. Share this with your community, local representatives, schools, and anyone who cares about child safety. Together, we can push for practical changes that save lives.