- Home Page
- Departments
- Emergency Management
- Citizen Preparedness
- Preparedness for Children
Preparedness for Children
Disaster Checklist for Families
- Comfort Items: stuffed animal, doll, pacifier or blanket
- Personal Hygiene: baby wipes, feminine products, diapers, nursing pads
- Children's Activities: books, puzzles, games
- Infant Nutrition: nursing supplies, formula, pre-packaged baby food
- Medical needs: infant/child fever reducer, rash ointment
- Family meet-up: Pick a safe spot to meet if separated such as a local school or library
- Out-of-towner: A family contact who would not be affected by a local school or library
- ICE: Cell phones should have "ICE" (In Case of Emergency) programmed into their contacts
- Text: Text messages can often get through, even when a phone call can't
- Contact school or day care: Ensure they know what your child is supposed to do in case of an emergency
- Limit TV time: Intense media coverage of disasters can frighten young children and disturb teenagers as well.
- Listen: Find out your child's concerns about the situation.
- Comfort: Let them know their safety is your top priority.
- Be aware: Changes in sleeping, eating and other behaviors can indicate distress. Seek professional support and counseling if they persist.
- Make time: Help kids understand they're safe and secure by talking, playing and other family activities.
- Keep calm and carry on: Your child will learn how to deal with these events from you.
- Care: Make a point of showing sensitivity toward other families impacted by the disaster.
- Routine: Help your children return to normal activities including school, sports and play groups.
- Volunteer: Helping others can give your child a sense of control, security and empathy
Links
Sesame Street's Let's Get ReadyEmergency and Disaster Education and Planning Links for Adults