Since today marks the midway point between the commemorations of Hurricane Katrina and 9/11, it seemed appropriate to highlight this page of resources (from the LGBT-supportive American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)) to help families prepare for and cope with terrorism and natural disasters.
While the information on biological, chemical, and radiological agents could drive anyone into a state of paranoia, more useful are these items:
- Family Readiness Kit… Preparing to Handle Disasters
- TIPP Sheet for Parents: Four Steps to Prepare Your Family for Disasters (PDF)
- TIPP Sheet for Parents: When Your Child Needs Emergency Medical Services
For LGBT families in particular, safe copies of important family documents (birth certificates, adoption records, and other court orders, along with recent photos) is especially important. A bank safe-deposit box is an obvious choice, but won’t do you much good if the bank is underwater. The AAP suggests keeping an additional copy with out-of-town family or friends.
The AAP also reminds parents of four critical points when communicating with children and adolescents about disasters:
- Let children know they’re safe, the violence is isolated, and you have done everything you can to keep them safe.
- Watch for signs, particularly in adolescents, such as sleep disturbances, fatigue, lack of pleasure in activities enjoyed previously, and initiation of illicit substance abuse.
- Limit exposure to the media, as it can be traumatizing. Do not let children watch these events alone.
- Discussion of the events is critical. Emphasize that terrorism comes from desperation. Lashing out at a particular religious or ethnic group will only cause more harm.
May none of us ever need the information above.