Preparing Children for Emergencies

Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere and preparing your children is an important part of emergency planning. Your children depend on you for care and you play a special role in helping them prepare for emergencies. Since most emergencies occur without notice, it is important to plan ahead. This way, both adults and children can respond as quickly and safely as possible. Your efforts now can help your child stay safe later! It is important to talk to you children about emergencies by sharing age-appropriate information. Younger children may need simple explanations. You may need to repeat information until they understand. Older children may be curious and ask questions. Be honesty, but avoid focusing on scary details. Discuss how emergencies may affect your family. For example, explain how a flood may cause a loss of electricity, school closures and dangerous driving conditions. Also, be reassuring and positive. Make sure you explain how you have prepared for emergencies and how they can too. It is important that they understand that firefighters and other emergency personnel are trained to help them in an emergency. Talking about emergencies with your children can help them feel safer and less afraid.