Children and Disasters

Iloilo, Philippines
July 25, 2014

Save the Children

We need to rebuild and to rise from this

disaster. We need education so that we are
ready for when disasters come to our country.
We dont just want money and gifts. We need
you to help us stand again on our own feet.
- Sofia, 15

Why Child-Centred
DRR?
- Why are children an important part of
DRR?
3

 Unique perception of risks

Good risk communicators
If empowered good change agents
Change behaviours for more
sustainable development
Leaders and decision makers of
tomorrow

Before Yolanda:
- Children closely followed the approaching
typhoon
- Secured books in plastic bags (Mayorga)
- Eight out of ten consulted children knew
about the typhoon (West Samar)
- One out of ten evacuated

WHY?!
6

Children are responsible Survivors!

-

Taking care of siblings and friends

Sharing toys and clothes
Cleaning their schools
Helping out their parents
Standing in line for relief goods

Childrens recommendations:
More information about disasters
Parents and local authorities tell what to do next time a
disaster / hazard affects their community
Tree planting
Grab-bag
Cleaning streets and environment in order to get rid of
mosquitos
EWS listening to weather forecasts and sharing of
information
Teach in and out of school children on what to do if
disaster is coming
Recycling and reusing materials
Evacuation plans
Involvement in community decision-making about
disaster preparedness
8

Children and Yolanda

Most adults only think about money. They
think that money is the only thing that will
help them. But I think education is the best
solution. That we know what we have to do
when there is another typhoon like Haiyan in
our community.

But. They cant do it by

themselves..

10