How do children fare in emergencies?

A recent international study showed that children are not well prepared when it comes to emergency situations, be it a fire, an earthquake, a gas leak or getting lost. As tougher economic times mean more families, in which both parents are working, it becomes a bigger concern. The probability of youngsters finding themselves in a crisis situation increases. Gulf News community journalists spoke to children and their parents from a cross-section of society in the UAE to find out how they cope on their own. Are children prepared to handle emergencies? Read on to find out. 

IRAQI  FAMILY

IRAQI  FAMILY

IRAQI  FAMILY

IRAQI  FAMILY

According to Dr Gabriel Ionescu, head of Paediatric Surgery at Tawam Hospital in Al Ain, children’s responses in emergency situations can be “unpredictable, especially during situations involving trauma”. He compared them to another species that is quick to react, but often reckless in its response — chickens.

“Usually, children flee the scene or run straight into trouble, not realising the consequences of their choices. It’s up to their parents to prepare their children and teach them what to do beforehand.”

A recent US Census report found that 19 per cent of the nation’s children, between the ages 5 and 14, were left at home alone regularly. So are they able to cope when they’re on their own?

It is not a far-fetched idea, according to Dr Ionescu. With the spread of literacy and greater exposure to media, children have become more clued in — all they need is a little guidance and communication. As someone who works in the accident and emergency department of Welcare Ambulatory Care Centre, in Dubai, Dr Lalit Taori knows this to be true.

In his experience, he said he often finds that culture has a role to play in children’s behaviour during traumatic moments. Dr Taori said those from the West are often more responsible and informed than those who hail from the East.

“When a small child requires stitches, I have seen parents gently explaining the process — these children tend to be calm and cooperative. But then there are other children who scream and cry because they do not know what to expect and have no assistance from their emotional parents.

"According to Dr Taori, children in the modern age are not being given enough room to become independent. He said: “Parents are often over-indulgent and pamper kids. It’s important for children to learn and experience things for themselves so they can grow. Parents can help by preparing them.”

Does your child know what to do in an emergency situation? Have you made an attempt to talk to your child about what to do? What more can be done to ensure children know how to react in these kinds of situations? Tell us by posting a comment below.