ILOILO City – With earthquakes posing a constant threat in Western Visayas, the Department of Health (DOH) has launched a specialized Earthquake Preparedness Guide aimed at helping families with persons with autism navigate emergencies, addressing long-standing gaps in disaster readiness for individuals with special needs.
DOH Region 6 said the guide responds to the heightened risks faced by persons with autism during disasters, as sensory sensitivities, communication barriers, anxiety, and sudden changes in routine can significantly hinder their ability to respond to fast-moving emergency situations. The department noted that families with children with disabilities often face greater barriers to preparedness, making tailored guidance essential.
The guide outlines why persons with autism can be more vulnerable during earthquakes, citing sensory overload from noise and crowds, difficulty processing rapid instructions, and disruptions to routines that may trigger distress or meltdowns.
It also explains what caregivers can expect when the ground shakes and how to manage reactions during and immediately after a seismic event, including the use of visual supports and clear, simple instructions.
A key feature of the guide is a detailed 72-hour Go Bag checklist designed specifically for persons with autism. Recommended items include waterproofed important documents, non-perishable food and water, medications and hygiene supplies, communication devices and visual cards, sensory tools such as headphones and fidgets, comfort items, and power banks to keep essential devices running.
The guide also underscores the need for low-stimulation, predictable environments in evacuation shelters, warning that chaotic settings can worsen distress among persons with autism if routines are abruptly disrupted.
“Keep your family safe and supported during a disaster,” DOH-6 stressed.
“This essential guide, featuring a 72-hour Go Bag checklist and safety tips, is specifically designed to meet the needs of persons with autism,” the department added.
DOH-6 said the release of the guide is part of its broader push for inclusive disaster preparedness, urging families to access the material, review its recommendations, and prepare in advance to ensure that persons with autism are not left behind when emergencies strike./PN