Living in the Midwest, it seems that multiple times per year we need to be prepared to seek shelter or monitor for severe weather threats – tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, strong winds, etc. are a constant. These situations are stressful enough when living (or working) with small children, but concerns can be heightened when your child is on the Spectrum and may struggle with understanding the situation, transitioning to a safe space, or processing extra sensory input. That’s why it is important to have a plan in place for emergencies like these. This blog will dive into risks, response actions, and preparedness tips for those living and/or working with kiddos on the Autism Spectrum.
What is a Tornado?
According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory “A tornado is a narrow, violently rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground. Because wind is invisible, it is hard to see a tornado unless it forms a condensation funnel made up of water droplets, dust and debris. Tornadoes can be among the most violent phenomena of all atmospheric storms we experience.”
Preparing & Executing a Tornado Safety Plan
Calm, cool, and collected, right? Sometimes this is easier said than done, especially in a crisis with children. In an emergency situation, like severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, having a preparedness plan can make all the difference in keeping yourself, your family, your students- everyone safe! Especially for those impacted by special needs and varying abilities.
1. Develop a Plan
- Evaluate your home, office, classroom, etc. to determine a “shelter” place. Ideal locations within your space that can serve as safe spaces during a tornado often include a basement, bathrooms, or ground-level interior rooms without windows.
- Create a kit to keep on hand for when the time comes. Check out this helpful graphic for preparing your kit! Don’t forget to include sensory items and any preferred snacks your child might need.
- See our kid-friendly emergency guide, tailored to sensory needs, to help include the kiddos in the planning process to reduce anxiety and increase understanding.
- Discuss how to practice using the safe space without causing undue stress or fear. Perhaps a social story would help!
- Ensure if you are not the parent or guardian of the child, that you have a hard copy of emergency contact information for children under your supervision. We suggest compiling a file with this documentation beforehand and keeping it in a safe and accessible area for quick access. Make sure to review regularly to ensure documentation is up-to-date!
2. Communication Strategies During Emergencies
- When communicating with children on the Autism Spectrum, each conversation with each kiddo might be different. It’s important to communicate in ways that each child will understand whether it’s pictures, examples, or demonstration!
- To help explain the situation clearly and quickly, keep visual aids on hand or in your emergency kit. If your child uses an electronic device for communication, make sure you have a backup communication method or a portable block charger in case of a power outage.
- Try your best to remain calm (we know this one can be hard!) and provide reassurance throughout the event – even if you’re pep talk is for yourself.
3. Sensory Considerations During a Tornado
- It’s important to address and plan for potential sensory triggers associated with tornadoes, such as loud noises (thunder, breaking glass, sirens, etc.), flashing lights, or confined spaces.
- Make sure to include sensory items of comfort that can help manage sensory overload in your preparedness kit. Recommended items could include a weighted blanket, sensory sac, fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, a few preferred comfort items, and a change of clothes with their preferred fabric or feel.
Remember, severe weather can strike at any time and it’s important to be prepared, not just with a plan and kit, but also with communication tools, and sensory needs. We encourage families to regularly review and practice their plans together, much like businesses and schools routinely practice fire drills.