Prepare Your Children for an Emergency

“Educating and preparing your children for an accident or emergency can be a life-saver,” says Erin Shaffer, certified child life specialist at Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. She recommends regular family gatherings to review key procedures. Here’s what to cover:

• Teach children how to dial 911 and have them memorize their address and phone number. A child as young as 3 or 4 is capable of this, Shaffer says.
• Have a first-aid kit and emergency equipment (flashlights, candles, blankets) in your home and make sure everyone knows where they are. Remind children not to use candles unless adults supervise.
• Instruct children over age 8 how to use a fire
  extinguisher.
• Show children over age 10 how to turn off water, gas and electricity at the main switches.
• Teach children what to do when they hear a smoke detector or smell smoke. Have an escape route planned so they can get out safely and quickly. If possible, designate a neighbor’s home as a meeting place.
• Make sure children are aware that they can go to a policeman or fireman in an accident or emergency.

Children often respond better if you can make emergency preparation fun. Conduct a “home hazard hunt” periodically to spot potentially dangerous situations. Quiz your children every six months to review emergency plans. “Children like to help,” Shaffer says, “and advance planning means less stress and better outcomes for everyone.”

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