Pediatric Preparedness Resources

Children are most vulnerable to adverse health effects from environmental hazards.

Climate change poses threats to human health, safety and security, and children are a particularly high risk. The member organization, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), provides resources and information about adverse health effects of climate change on children.

The AAP has also developed The Pediatric Preparedness Resource Kit. This resource allows for pediatricians, public health leaders and other pediatric care providers to assess what is already happening in their community or state, and help determine what needs to be done before an emergency or disaster. The kit will promote collaborative discussions and decision-making about pediatric preparedness planning.

Physicians who care for children are encouraged to use the resource materials found in the kit to develop strategic partnerships, increase partner engagement, identify strengths and challenges for pediatric preparedness planning, and establish communication networks to ensure that the needs of children are addressed during a pandemic or other emergency.

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Public health officials are invited to review the contents of the kit to increase their awareness of issues relevant to pediatric preparedness. The Kit includes information on strategies to achieve the following:

Appendices

For more information or to request printed copies of the kit, e-mail DisasterReady@aap.org.

Additional Resources

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Disaster Preparedness State Contacts and Initiatives

Preparedness Checklist for Pediatric Practices (AAP)

Disaster Preparedness to meet Children’s Needs (AAP)

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention: Emergency Preparedness and Response

Disaster Planning for Schools

Guidelines for Care of Children in the Emergency Department