Participation of Children and Adolescents in Live Crisis Drills and Exercises

• 2020

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• David Schonfeld; Marlene Melzer-Lange; Andrew Hashikawa; Peter Gorski
PMID: 32839245DOI: https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2020-015503

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This policy statement discusses including children in crisis drills, like active shooter exercises. It describes how these drills can help prepare kids but also warns about possible psychological harm. The article suggests avoiding high-intensity drills for young children and using volunteers if needed. It emphasizes not deceiving participants into thinking a drill is real and recommends involving mental health professionals in planning to reduce stress. The focus should be on teaching safety skills rather than causing fear, with careful consideration of children's unique needs and vulnerabilities during such activities.

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Tags

Focus Areas: Trauma; Violence

Audiences: Behavioral Health Professionals; Emergency Managers; Physicians; Public Health Professionals

Emergency Management Stage: Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Civil Defense; Crisis Intervention; Disaster Planning; Pediatrics; School Health Services; Schools; Societies, Medical; United States; Survivors; Psychological Distress; Emergency Shelter; Simulation Training; Gun Violence

Institutions: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

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