In cities where heavy rainfall and flash flooding can disrupt daily life, it’s vital that children know how to stay safe. Through World Vision’s Disaster Risk Management program in Tianjin, children like Qiqi are gaining essential emergency knowledge—brought to life through immersive learning.

Qiqi recently took part in a disaster preparedness activity organized in her community. But instead of sitting through a typical lecture, she and her friends used virtual reality (VR) headsets to simulate a real-time emergency.

 With excitement, Qiqi put on the headset and entered a digitally recreated city environment. “Suddenly the sky turned gloomy, dark clouds gathered, and then came a heavy downpour. The rain got heavier, and the streets quickly filled with water.”

 The VR system prompted her to look for a safer high ground. Qiqi spotted a small hill in a nearby park and quickly moved toward it, avoiding the rising water. Once she reached safety, the scene shifted to a virtual classroom, where a kind-looking teacher appeared on the screen to explain the causes, dangers, and prevention measures of urban flooding. The teacher emphasized: "Understanding the city's drainage system and avoiding dumping trash into storm drains can help reduce flooding."

 The final segment was a flood rescue simulation, where Qiqi became a responder. She gathered materials to build a simple raft and used ropes and floatation aids to rescue residents trapped by floodwaters. “Through this VR experience, I not only learned a lot about how to deal with urban flooding, but also realized how important it is to stay calm, be brave, and work together during an emergency.”

 Qiqi’s experience is just one example of how World Vision is equipping children with practical knowledge by integrating technology and hands-on learning to build a culture of preparedness and resilience—starting with the next generation.