Emergency Preparedness

Although September is emergency preparedness month, it is never too early or late to make sure you are prepared. Emergency readiness and disaster preparedness is essential for everyone. Visit http://www.ready.gov/ for general information, and then visit the links below provided by the National Center for Medical Home Implementation.

Medical Home Spotlight on Disaster Preparedness from the National Center for Medical Home Implementation (NCMHI)

September 2010 marks the seventh annual National Preparedness Month event as supported by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has joined the National Preparedness Month Coalition in promoting emergency readiness and disaster preparedness.

Disasters are unpredictable and can cause loss of life, destruction of property, and disruption of business operations. Pediatricians face special concerns including the inadequacy of disaster planning in addressing the needs of children (especially those with special needs), and the ongoing need to develop or improve their pediatric offices and personal disaster plans. A working plan can help practices reduce risks, maintain practice operations, and ensure a medical home for children in their care.

The AAP Children and Disasters Website provides readily available tools and resources ongoing to help you:

Join In
Communicate/Train
Sign Up to Volunteer in Advance
Support Hospital Preparedness
Organize AAP Chapter Preparedness Initiatives

Resources available include:

Guidelines for Care of Children in the Emergency Department

A joint policy statement crafted by the AAP Committee on Pediatric Emergency Medicine, American College of Emergency Physicians Pediatric Committee, and the Emergency Nurses Association Pediatric Committee.

Disaster Preparedness State Initiatives Web Page

Refer to the chapter initiatives for each state/region for ideas. This page features a clickable map by state or federal region to learn about AAP disaster preparedness contacts and initiatives.

Pediatric Patient Safety in the Emergency Department

A new resources developed by the AAP and Joint Commission Resources, this CD-ROM and handbook features practical strategies and advice on how to create a safe, effective pediatric friendly emergency department. Available for purchase through the AAP Bookstore.

Emergency Preparedness and daylight savings

APHA’s Get Ready: Set Your Clocks, Check Your Stocks campaign is reminding people to refresh their emergency supplies before a disaster occurs. APHA suggests that when you change your clocks for daylight savings time, you should check your preparedness kit to make sure items aren’t missing and that the food hasn’t expired. If you haven’t created a stockpile yet, this is a great time to create one.