Enhancing Earthquake Preparedness for Children with Disabilities in Iran

In line with the ongoing project “Comprehensive Earthquake Preparedness Education Plan for Children with Special Needs and Disabilities,” UNICEF Iran and UNESCO, in partnership with The International Institute of Earthquake Engineering and Seismology (IIEES), have conducted an earthquake and safety drill at a special school for children with mobility and mental disabilities. 

The 26th national “Earthquake and Safety” drill was held on November 27th, 2024, marked by the earthquake bell, simultaneously in schools across the country. This year's drill had a distinctive focus on the safety and readiness of students with disabilities and special needs. Alongside the general preparedness guidelines for students, an educational guide for students with disabilities was prepared and distributed to all schools, including special schools. To emphasize the importance of safety and readiness for students with special needs, a symbolic national drill was held for the first time in a special school (Soroush Boys School). 

The objectives of earthquake drills in schools are to increase students' awareness of earthquakes, prepare them to respond correctly and quickly, and familiarize them with natural disasters, empowering them to face such events. Additionally, these drills aim to enhance the community's safety culture, secure schools, and reduce earthquake casualties and damages. The drill at the special school, specifically aimed at promoting earthquake preparedness for children with disabilities, also gathered valuable feedback on the training materials. 

This initiative underscores the critical importance of preparing children with disabilities to face natural disasters and mitigate their impacts, representing a significant step towards inclusive disaster preparedness and fostering a safer and more resilient future for Iran's young generations.