Friday, February 1, 2013

"Disaster Hero" Helps Children Prepare for Emergencies

Kids in grades one to eight can learn how to prepare for disasters and emergency situations by playing "Disaster Hero," a new online video game from the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). Players create their own hero  to compete with cartoon heros, who are "elite disaster specialists." The scenarios include earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods.  The goal is to teach children the basics of preparedness. "Disaster Hero" also has games, puzzles, and quizzes where children learn about escape routes, avoiding hazards, and putting together emergency kits. The website also has parent and teacher resources. ACEP developed the game with funding from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency). "Disaster Hero" is available at http://www.disasterhero.com.