It is easier than you think. If you live in California, your child learned the basics about what to do in an earthquake in school. They may even be able to show you how to drop, cover, and hold on.
Why not have a conversation with your children about earthquakes, and help them understand and know what to do, so they can cope? There is a lot of information to help you.
Tell children that a disaster is something that could hurt people or cause a lot of damage. Explain to them that nature sometimes can provide “too much of a good thing like fire, rain or wind”.
Explaining how important it is to make a family disaster plan is crucial.
Talk to Your Children About Earthquakes
- How to call for help
- When to call each emergency number
- To call the family contact if separated
- To keep personal identification information in their possession at all times
There are also many kinds of games, videos and activities for kids to help them understand and prepare for emergencies. You can start with Disaster Preparedness Activity Books designed especially for children. These provide a whole list of things to talk about with your child as you help him or her get ready.
Your child has a normal routine most days involving breakfast, school, play and homework. An earthquake or another type of emergency will upend that routine for your child, so you need to talk to them in advance, so they do not become afraid or anxious about what is happening.
Your children will take cues from you when an earthquake strikes. Do you know what to do in an earthquake? The question is do you know how to drop, cover, and hold on? Remember that your child’s response to the situation will mirror your own. If you are afraid or panicked, your child may experience the same feelings.
A child’s imagination is a wonderful thing, but if your child’s imagination is making them afraid, take these fear seriously. By talking to your child honestly about the steps he or she can take to be safe during and after an earthquake, you can help them cope with the emergency without panicking.
By preparing your family you can help manage the concerns of your child without undue panic. Once the shaking has stopped, get everyone out from under where they have sheltered and focus on your child’s emotional needs by asking how he or she felt about being in an earthquake. Include your children in your family’s recovery efforts will so they will feel that their “normal” routine will soon return. Assure them they are part of the team to keep them engaged in getting your lives back to normal.
So now that you know what you’re going to say, do you know what to do? Is your home secure? There are some essential items that you must own to ensure that you are prepared for an emergency. We have created a buyers guide on the best survival gear which includes some of the most important items that anyone should have at home or when going on hiking and camping trips.