What to Do With Disabled Children in an Earthquake
According to the United States Geological Survey, most earthquakes occur in "The Ring of Fire," located in the Pacific Ocean. However, nearly every state in the United States experiences some type of earthquake, with varying frequency. Given how common this natural disaster is, it is important to prepare yourself for the event, especially if you have a child with a disability. In the unfortunate case an earthquake occurs, help the child with special needs get through the experience safely and with the least amount of emotional trauma possible.
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Emotional Support
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Remain calm during the earthquake. A child looks to an adult during scary situations and therefore it is crucial that you act calmly should an earthquake occur. Refrain from screaming or crying if you hear the earthquake siren or feel the ground shake beneath you. Use the skills from earthquake practice drills and gently but forcefully lead your child to safety. Calm the child by reassuring him that all will be OK by holding his hand or singing to him. If you are unable to reach the child, speak loudly and reassure him from another room.
Child with a Mobility Disability
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Help a child with a physical disability safely get to a doorway or inside hallway of the building. He should remain in his wheelchair, rather than be removed from his method of escape. For a small or young child using crutches or a walker, pick the child up, along with his mobility devices, and quickly move him to a secure location. Do so as quickly and gently as possible.
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Child with a Visual Impairment
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Tell the child that there is an earthquake occurring and ask him to take your hand. Lead him to the nearest safe place within the room or building. Constantly talk about what is going on around you. Use age-appropriate language and describe what you see occurring around you. The child will be able to feel the vibrations and hear the loud noises from the earthquake, so explaining in words what he hears and feels helps keep the child calm. Remind him that the fire alarm may go off during an earthquake, but that does not necessarily mean there is actually a fire. This is due to the heavy shaking of the building.
Child with a Hearing Impairment
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Walk over to the child and use American Sign Language to sign to him that an earthquake is occurring. He may be unable to hear the alarm sounding, so it is important to inform him first and foremost of the event. Help the child to the designated safe location and continue to inform him of additional alarms that may start to sound during the earthquake. Keep the child calm with a reassuring touch since he is unable to hear your words of encouragement during the earthquake.
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References
- United States Geological Survey: Earthquake Facts
- "Preschool Children with Special Needs Children At-Risk, Children with Disabilities"; Janet W. Learner et al.; 1998
- Jamaica Information Service: Earthquake Safety for Vulnerable Populations
- American Red Cross: Earthquake Safety Checklist
Resources
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