Children are not always considered in government and community activities.
Properly informed and motivated pediatricians are essential advocates for children. Grassroots advocacy can include efforts to ensure legislation and funding to support an emphasis on children in disaster
planning at every level.

Pediatricians can serve as expert advisors to local, state, and federal agencies and committees. Pediatricians also play a central role in disaster and terrorism preparedness with families, children, and their communities. Families view pediatricians as their expert resource, and most of them expect the pediatrician
to be knowledgeable in
areas of concern.

Providing expert guidance entails educating families
in anticipation of events and responding to questions
during and after actual
events. It is essential that pediatricians educate themselves about these issues of emergency preparedness.