Preparing children for disasters
The fresh start of a new year is a good opportunity to review your family’s emergency plans. What should your kids be expected to do in a disaster? How do you prepare them without scaring them?
The American Academy of Pediatrics has an excellent family-friendly guide to preparing for disasters. Here's the full menu of resources, including lists of emergency supplies to keep on hand. Meanwhile, here are some pointers on how to prepare your child for emergencies:
--“Tell children that a disaster is something that could hurt people or cause damage,” the organization’s site says. “Explain that nature sometimes provides ‘too much of a good thing’-- fire, rain, and wind.”
--Teach kids how to call for help and when to use each emergency number.
--Designate a family contact who lives outside your town and instruct your child to call that person if you’re separated.
--Teach children to keep personal identification with them at all times.
--Every six months, go over your family disaster plan (including two escape routes from each room) and quiz children on it.
(Photo by Baltimore Sun photographer Kenneth Lam)
Comments
I was impressed by the fact that the four-year-old who was abandoned at a rest stop after his mother was killed this past week knew his full name and his address. I wonder how many four-year-olds know that information and could repeat it in a crisis? Parents can make learning such information a game--this might be good for time in the car together.
Posted by: Dahlink | January 5, 2009 6:39 AM
I thought I would share something my Dad used to remind me of every New Year - it's a combination of organization and purging.
Spice up that New Year:
Don't forget to pitch those dried herbs. They only last a little over a year. Is the jar dusty? Pitch it! Not sure when you got it? Pitch it! Those natural oils dry up and there goes your taste!
Oils - olive oil, vegetable and canola, sesame, etc only last a year. Some of the more exotic oils (walnut, etc) last less than a year. Your flavored oils should have been pitched within a few days of opening - do it now!
While your at it -- dig in that pantry. Those boxes of beans and grains are best when used within a year too. If the box on anything is open and it's older than you can remember - pitch it! Store opened items in sealed containers for longer shelf life.
And now is the perfect time to reevaluate those appliances. Switch out anything on your counter that you don't use that often. Map out your kitchen -- should you move some of the cabinets contents to make a better food/prep pattern? Do it now!
And lastly - treat yourself to some new spices and herbs! I use Penzeys.com. Mmmmmmmm!
Posted by: Katherine | January 5, 2009 1:56 PM
I highly recommend any publication by Gavin DeBecker for insights on strategically teaching kids to trust their instincts, find the right person to help and build their own confidence. Protecting the Gift is an excellent book.
The Safe Side DVD is also an excellent resource.
Posted by: Edamommy | January 7, 2009 10:41 AM