Kids and Emergency Planning Adapted from resources found at www.redcross.org, www.ready.gov, and www.vaemergency.gov
Discussing potential disasters with kids can be challenging, but involving them in your emergency plans is one of the best ways to be sure they are prepared if an event should occur. A great first step is to let them help put together a disaster supply kit. Here are some ideas of starter items to include: Water
Extra Batteries Whistle
Manual Can Opener 1 gallon per person, per day, for at least 3 days Local Maps Help make this fun by seeing if your kids can locate important places, like your home, school, a relative’s house, etc. Use this opportunity to talk about how and where you would meet up in an emergency. Cell Phone (with chargers and portable power banks) Medication Supply for all Household Members Enough for at least 3 days. Wrench or Pliers To turn off utilities. Extra Clothes & Blankets Appropriate for the season.
1 gallon per person, per day, for at least 3 days. Let them try to figure out how many gallons are needed. Food 3-day non-perishable supply, help make this fun for kids by figuring out ways to include some of their favorite foods and snacks. Battery-Powered or Hand Crank Radio
Used to signal for help, whistles can sometimes be heard much better than voices. Try it out with your kids by having them wait outside while you yell and whistle. Talk about how much effort it took to speak loud enough vs. the whistle. Plastic Sheeting & Duct Tape Moist Towelettes, Baby Wipes, Garbage Bags, and Plastic Ties For bathroom and other needs. Don’t forget diapers, if needed. Soap, Hand Sanitizer, and Disinfecting Wipes Games and Activities Small non-electronic items are recommended, like cards, crayons, and coloring books.
Flashlight
Toiletries Toothbrushes and toothpaste, etc.
First-Aid Kit Include nitrile gloves, and cloth face coverings for everyone 2 and older. Depending on the emergency, the air quality could be low.
Activity: Take It or Leave It For each of the items pictured, discuss with your kids whether it would be an important item to include in an emergency kit. Listen to to their thoughts about why or why not, and come to a conclusion together. There’s not always an easy answer; some will depend on your household (babies, elderly, pets, etc.)
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