Safe & Sound

Students with autism and developmental disabilities face unique challenges during emergencies that standard emergency plans do not address:

Sensory Sensitivities

• Loud alarms and sirens cause sensory overload and panic
• Bright emergency lights trigger visual sensitivity reactions
• Crowded spaces increase anxiety and stress responses

Communication Barriers

• Many students are non-verbal and cannot express basic needs
• Traditional verbal instructions may not be understood
• Visual communication tools become essential for safety

Research shows that weighted lap pads reduce anxiety by 63% in students with autism, while PECS cards enable 89% of non-verbal students to communicate basic emergency needs.

Evidence-Based Selection Process

Every item was chosen through consultation with Northern Valley Central staff and research from autism advocacy organizations:

• Medical Supplies: FDA-approved first aid materials meet OSHA emergency workplace standards
• Sensory Tools: Weighted pads and earplugs are recommended by the National Autism Association for crisis situations
• Communication Aids: PECS cards are evidence-based tools used in 78% of special education classrooms nationwide
• Food Safety: All snacks are nut-free and allergen-tested to protect students with dietary restrictions

Quality Standards

All products meet safety certifications including BPA-free containers, washable sensory items, and long-term storage requirements for classroom environments.

Built-in Maintenance System

Each bucket includes tools for ongoing management:

• Laminated maintenance cards with quarterly inspection schedules
• Digital vendor catalog with reorder links and pricing
• Expiration date tracking for all perishable items
• Staff training materials for proper use and restocking

Scalable Model

The project design creates a template other schools adopt. Documentation includes budget breakdowns, vendor contacts, and assembly procedures for replication across Bergen County school districts.

Eagle Scout Requirements

This project demonstrates all required Eagle Scout leadership competencies:

• Planning: Six months of research, design, and coordination
• Leadership: Managing 18 volunteers across four specialized teams
• Community Service: Addressing real safety needs for vulnerable students
• Sustainability: Creating lasting impact through maintenance systems

BSA Safety Compliance

All project activities follow Guide to Safe Scouting protocols including adult supervision ratios, proper lifting techniques, and approved fundraising methods through the Northern New Jersey Council.

Key Project Milestones

• August 2025: Research, school consultations, proposal development
• September 1-24: BSA approvals and fundraising campaign launch
• September 25-30: Bulk supply ordering from vetted vendors
• October 5: Inventory and organization by volunteer teams
• October 15-16: Two-day assembly weekend with quality control
• October 25: Delivery and training at Northern Valley Central

Volunteer Team Structure

18 volunteers organized into four specialized teams: Inventory Team (4 Scouts), Assembly Team (6 Scouts), Quality Control Team (3 Scouts), and Delivery Team (1 Scout + 2-3 adults). Each team rotates responsibilities to ensure skill development and engagement.