Keeping Children with Disabilities

Safe in Emergencies

Handrian Purawijaya, MD
Emergency Physician
Emergency Ambulance Service - Jakarta
 Preface
• Children with disabilities sometimes have
added challenges during an emergency
situation compared to children without
disabilities.
• 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?
• Get a Kit
– 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.
• Some basic items :
– Flashlight
– Radio (hand-crank or battery-powered with extra
batteries)
– Water
– First-aid kit
– Can opener
– Canned goods
• Your Family’s Unique Needs
– Medications
– A small identification (ID) card or bracelet with
information on key medications and emergency
contacts for your child to keep with him or her at
all times.
– Special foods or formulas
– Equipment or supplies
What Can Healthcare
Professional Do?
 Family Education
• Don’t get caught in the “hype”
• Have a plan and know what to do
• Talk on a level children undertanding
• Give children information they need
• Keep routine and regular schedule
• Make sure your children know what to do if you
are not around
• Your child special needs ( Meds )
• Teach your children to recognize and accept help
from emergency officials.
 If Emergency did Occur..
• Stay Calm, follow the plan
• Check for injury, give first aid treatment
• Evacuate, if advised to do so
• Check for gas leaks, fires and other hazards
• Contact your family or other emergency
contact