Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a concept that can be traced to an article published by the American Psychiatric Association in 1954 recognizing the benefits of early crisis interventions that relieve stress and human suffering. This fact sheet explores the goals of PFA models; outlines when and how schools can implement PFA, including…

The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the reality of life in all aspects of human endeavors. The education sector was not spared--the school system was uprooted and procedures had to be made quickly for the safety of students and faculty. As a result, educators struggled with keeping students engaged academically during online learning and the stress…

Despite the fact that crisis management is essential for school's smooth operation and crises occur at schools and education institutions around the world, Greek school is characterized by limited readiness to manage its potential crises. This study investigates the attitudes and perceptions of teachers concerning crisis events in school units…

Disaster preparedness is a national public health concern. The risk of individuals and communities affected by a natural disaster has increased, and unfortunately this trend is expected to continue. College students could play a primary role in responding to and recovering from a major disaster if they have sufficiently prepared for a disaster. A…

This article describes how colleges are seeking the best ways to respond to dangerous incidents like the shootings that occurred at Virginia Tech, and how best to alert people on their campuses to various threats to public safety and emergencies.

Offers ideas and guidelines on how to manage crisis before and after it occurs in camp setting. Lists types of possible crises, detailing one actual incident. Explores broad issues and techniques of crisis management. Emphasizes value of planning for crisis management and risk management (crisis prevention). (TES)

In this article, the author relates the lessons she learned from Hurricane Katrina. During the first few days after the hurricane, it took 2,500 volunteers per hour around the clock to do what needed to be done. That included medical volunteers; crisis counselors and mental health professionals; and volunteers to distribute water and snacks, serve…

Gives practical ideas for successful first aid simulations with specific steps for planning, executing, and debriefing. Emphasizes safety measures, realism, and planning for a definite purpose, e.g., motivating students to learn first aid/emergency procedures. Suggestions for debriefing cover time to air feelings, construct a factual chronology,…

Suggests staging simulated accidents for emergency planning and training. Describes planning and staging simulated accidents for outdoor programs. Offers tips on role playing and how to create imitation "wounds." Describes implementation of plan, emphasizing value of proper supervision and evaluation upon completion. (TES)