HOUSTON – Ryan Akabusi, 8, died over the weekend after authorities told KPRC 2 he ran away from his home and wandered into a nearby lake.

His little body was discovered about 24 hours later.

Autism Speaks, an organization dedicated to creating a world where all people with autism, regardless of the spectrum, can reach their full potential, told us that drowning is the leading cause of death among autistic people who are wandering.

RELATED: 8-year-old boy with autism reported missing in Richmond and found dead in lake

This got us thinking about water safety and how parents can best try to ensure the safety of their children.

The Houston Swim Club believed that every child, especially those with autism, should take swimming lessons.

“I think the sooner the better. As you mentioned, the events of this weekend have shown us that children are very curious and love to wander. If your child can walk, he or she definitely needs to learn to swim,” said owner Tammy Schoen.

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Schoen said every child is different and lessons must be tailored to each child’s individual needs, which is why it is important to have skilled and well-trained coaches.

“You would have to teach them where the boundaries of the water are and where they can go, how close they can get to the water and how close they can’t get, where they can go in the water and where they can get out of the water. But I would also say you have to practice putting a life jacket on them so they feel comfortable wearing the life jacket in the water, especially if they have any sensory issues,” Schoen said.

Autism Speaks told KPRC 2 that parents who need help or resources can visit the website at autismspeaks.org.

“We have a team of trained professionals who are there to listen, guide and provide resources to families no matter where they live,” says Lindsay Naeder, vice president of community impact services and support.