Happy wife, happy life, right? The same goes for happy children, happy home. Panic is usually the first response when a crisis happens, especially where children are concerned. Remaining calm will help the children stay calm as well. Prepare children for emergencies. Make a plan and practice, this will become second nature to them. Children should know who to contact and where to meet if something were to happen.
Songs can be an ideal way to teach children how to prepare for an emergency. Every 5 year old in the world knows all the words to "Let it Go" from Disney's Frozen by heart. Music is easy to remember and can help children stay calm. Practice short little words and phrases with children so they know what to do when the time comes. Also check out links like this for ideas: Save the Children
Make it fun and easy to remember
ICE Contacts
Children should have several people to contact in case of emergency contacts. The first person on the list might be out of reach. This should be a printed card in their backpack or lunch box where it is easy to access. Make sure to include a contact who isn't in the area, just in case local communications are down. Most kids won't be able to remember phone numbers if they are scared and panicking. Cell phones remember numbers so you don't have to. If the power is out and phones can't be charged kids will need another way of getting in touch with loved ones. Make it simple and fun. Kids should know where to find contact information for family members. Hearing a familiar voice can help them to relax in a time of need.
Home Emergency Plan
Every home should have an evacuation plan. All members of the household should practice how to get out of the house on a regular basis. Spend some time as a family making a plan and keep the plan posted in the house as a daily reminder. Know what the risks are in your area; tornado, earthquake, flood, etc. Make sure the children know what to do if they are at school when disaster strikes.
Go Bag
Each member of the family should have their own go bag. Children should have several bottles of water and snacks they like. Include games and toys that they enjoy. Having items that remind them of home can be a major comfort in a crisis. You can send a water bottle and extra snack in their school bag. Children might be scared and feel alone in an crisis. Having a toy or comfort item from home can make all the difference. Discuss that these items are for an emergency and not to be distractions in class.
- Keep calm, and carry on keep a cool head in every situation
- Stop, drop, and roll if your clothes catch on fire
- Get low and go to avoid smoke from a fire and get to out safely
- Get out and stay out in the event of a fire
- Get ready, get safe being prepared will keep everyone safe
- Stay calm and do the prep step steps to get ready for an emergency