Youth Preparedness

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Emergencies and disasters can happen at any time, often without warning. Disaster planning, response, and recovery efforts must take into account the unique needs of children, who make up roughly a quarter of the U.S. population. These efforts should also engage the unique strengths children bring to emergency preparedness.

• Children are positive influencers. Children can effectively bring the messageof preparedness home to their families.

• Children can become leaders. Participating in youth preparedness programsempowers children to become leaders at home and in their schools and communities.

• Children can be confident during an emergency. Children who are preparedexperience less anxiety and feel more confident during actual emergencies and disasters.

 Starting or getting involved with a youth preparedness program is a great way to enhance a community’s resilience and help develop future generations of prepared adults.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers numerous resources that can help.

NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR YOUTH PREPAREDNESS EDUCATION

Developed by FEMA, the U.S. Department of Education, and the American Red Cross, the National Strategy for Youth Preparedness Education presents nine steps partners can take tohelp build a Nation of prepared youth. The steps focus on building partnerships to enhanceyouth preparedness learning programs; connecting young people with their families,communities, first responders, and other youth; and increasing preparedness at school.

START A YOUTH PREPAREDNESS PROGRAM

Anyone can start a youth preparedness program. Establishing one takes effort, but many resources are available to help. Youth Preparedness: Implementing a Community Based Program presents seven steps to start and sustain a program.