Children with disabilities sometimes have added challenges during an emergency situation compared to children without disabilities. For instance, children with disabilities may have a hard time moving from one location to another, have difficulty communicating, or have trouble adjusting to different situations. Additional preparation may be needed while planning for an emergency or disaster situation for children and youth with disabilities.
Prepare for an emergency to maintain calm in your family and keep children with disabilities safe.
What Can Families Do?
Keeping your family safe in emergency situations starts in the home. Here are some tips for you to follow at home to protect your family and your child with a disability—get a kit, make a plan, and be informed.
Get a Kit
Keeping a routine in an emergency will help your child stay calm. Putting together a good kit is the first step. Be sure to include your children in the process. Let your children pick things that make them feel secure, such as a favorite book or food—even if it is not healthy.