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Families of children with behavioral disorders know that every day is a challenge for their children. What can you do to prepare and support your child, when outside influences pose additional threats to your child's already compromised capacity to cope?

If you have a child with behavioral health needs, here are some things that you can do to ensure your child's special needs will be met during an emergency or disaster:

By filling out a Disaster Preparation Checklist for Children with Behavioral Health Care Needs you provide specific information about your child and his/her mental health needs. It is suggested that you put this, with a two-day supply of medication, in a safe and handy water-tight plastic box or bag. Some disaster preparedness resources recommend a two week supply, but even a few days would be helpful when communication and transportation is limited. (Ask your prescriber to help you arrange to have this additional medication supply.)

1. Additional considerations when your child has a behavioral health disorder.
   
   
   • Does your child have extra trouble with unfamiliar situations? The games and books from FEMA can help you teach your child to be safe in unusual situations. (processing, cognitive and impulse issues)
   • Does your child know how to identify safe partners in an emergency? Talk with your child about who their known and unknown rescuers could be. Schedule a visit to the police station and fire and ambulance houses so your child becomes comfortable with emergency responders.
2. Planning when your child is out of your home. Whether your child is in a local setting like school or placed in a residential setting, the facility should have clear emergency planning in place.
   
   
   • Does the facility have specific emergency contact and information on your child stored where it can be safeguarded and accessed readily?
   • Do you know where the child will be evacuated to in the event of an emergency, including local hospital and police information?
   • Does your child know your emergency contact information, including a second resource (for example, a grandmother)
     
   • Is this emergency contact information accessible to him? (for example, in a wallet or backpack)

Additional information about caring for children's mental health during disasters: Tips for Talking to Children After a Disaster: A Guide for Parents and Teachers.