Children generally lack the same maturity and mental capacity of adults.  You must help them prepare for the next emergency through instilling some very basic guidance.  Also learn what you must do to help them meet that challenge.  Teach your child how and when to call for help.  Post local emergency phone numbers by all telephones. 

HELP

Teach your child to call 9-1-1 in emergencies.

DANGER SIGNALS

Teach your child how to recognize danger signals such as smoke detectors, fire alarms, and local community warning systems.

MEETING PLACES

Designate two places for the family to meet and account for everyone.

• Immediately outside the home for sudden emergencies (ex: fire).
• Outside the neighborhood in case you cannot return home.  Everyone should know the address and phone number.

FAMILY INFORMATION

Help your child memorize important family information such as name, address, and phone number.  If your child has trouble memorizing this information, a small index card can keep it readily available.

EMERGENCY PLAN

Involve your child in the creation and maintenance of your family emergency plan.

PROVIDE A GOOD EXAMPLE

Your child is looking to you to see how to react in an emergency.  Remember that what may be only slightly frightening for you may be traumatic for your child.

(Attribution:  American Red Cross)