Emergency Preparedness
Families
CHildren
Children and Disasters: Disasters can leave children feeling frightened, confused and insecure. Children may respond to disaster by demonstrating fears, sadness or behavioral problems. Younger children may return to earlier behavior patterns, such as bedwetting, sleep problems and separation anxiety. Older children also may display anger, aggression, school problems or withdrawal. Some children who have only indirect contact with the disaster but witness it on television also may develop distress. Whether a child has personally experienced trauma, has merely seen the event on TV or has heard it discussed by adults, parents and teachers should be informed and ready to help if reactions to stress begin to occur.
Coping with Disaster: The way children cope with disasters or emergencies often is directly tied to the way their parents cope. Children can detect adults’ fears and sadness. Parents and adults can make disasters less traumatic for children by taking steps to manage their own feelings and coping. Parents almost always are the best source of support for children in disasters. One way to establish a sense of control and to build confidence in children before a disaster is to involve them in preparing family disaster kits and plans.
FAMILY CAREGIVING IN DISASTERS
Medications Are Important During a Disaster; Be Prepared - eXtension
Disaster Planning for Older Adults and Adults With Disabilities -eXtension
Virginia Cooperative Extension has many resources to help before, during and after emergency situations. Whether the need is flood clean-up or financial considerations, Extension offers valuable research-based information to support communities preparing and recovering from disasters. Please explore our website to learn which program or Extension Specialist may be able to best assist you, or contact your local extension office.