Emergencies and critical incidents are things no one wants to think about, but the reality is they can happen when we least expect it. Being prepared is key, from natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes to more personal situations like a medical emergency or car accident. For parents, there’s an extra layer of responsibility: ensuring your children are safe, emotionally supported, and equipped to handle whatever happens. But how can we, as parents, prepare for these unpredictable events? Let’s break it down into both the practical and emotional aspects of emergency preparedness.

Have a Family Emergency Plan

One of the first steps to being prepared is having a clear emergency plan that everyone in the family understands. This isn’t just about knowing where the flashlights are stored (though that’s important too!). It’s about knowing exactly what to do if disaster strikes.

Start by identifying emergency contact numbers, get help from https://lifeskillsaustralia.com.au/counselling-services-perth/critical-incident-response/ and ensure everyone knows how to reach each other in case of separation. If you’re ever in a situation where phones aren’t working, you’ll need a backup plan for where to meet. Pick a couple of places — one close to home and another further away — where everyone can head to if you’re separated.

A family plan should also include knowing evacuation routes (especially for things like fires or floods), where to go for shelter, and what supplies to grab on your way out. Walking through the plan regularly is important so everyone knows what to do without hesitation.

For younger kids, turn this into a fun activity by making a “family emergency kit” together and explaining the plan in terms they can understand. Practice the emergency routes, and where your meeting points are so, the idea doesn’t feel scary when it becomes necessary.

 

Prepare an Emergency Kit for the Family

An emergency kit is an absolute must. You’ll want to ensure it includes everything your family might need to get through at least 72 hours without outside help. This means food, water, first-aid supplies, medications, hygiene items, and blankets. You’ll also want to include things like a flashlight, extra batteries, a multi-tool, and a portable charger for your phone. Don’t forget comfort items like favourite toys, books, or stuffed animals for kids. This might seem trivial, but those small comforts can make a big difference in helping children feel safe during a crisis.

Don’t forget to consider your family’s specific needs. You’ll need baby formula, diapers, and wipes if you have a baby. Pack extra medications and necessary medical equipment if anyone has special medical conditions. It’s also a good idea to have a separate kit in your car, especially if you spend a lot of time on the road.

 

Know How to Communicate Under Stress

In a crisis, communication can get tricky. The key is to have a clear, calm communication plan with everyone involved. Start by teaching your children how to recognize when an emergency is happening and what steps to take (e.g., “call 911” or “head to the safe room”). In cases where cell phones might be down, establish check-in times or locations. Ensure everyone knows the importance of staying calm because panic can spread quickly, especially in kids.

For younger children who may not fully grasp the idea of an emergency, use simple, reassuring language to explain potential scenarios. For example, explain what might happen in the event of a fire or storm and how they can stay safe. Practice calming strategies like deep breathing, which can help all of you manage stress in high-pressure situations.

 

Emotional Preparedness for Children

While preparing with practical resources is important, emotional preparedness is equally crucial. Children often react to emergencies differently than adults — they may become scared, anxious, or confused.

Acknowledging their emotions and reassuring them that they are safe is important. Let them know that it’s okay to feel upset, and offer comfort. Part of emotional preparedness is ensuring children know what to expect.

If a critical incident happens, try to keep things as predictable as possible. Stick to routines when you can, like mealtime and bedtime, even if they need to be adjusted slightly. The familiarity can help children feel grounded amidst the chaos.

For older children, encourage them to ask questions and share their worries. Being open about your own feelings (without overwhelming them) can also help. Let them see that you’re calm, but also make sure they know that it’s normal to feel concerned.

 

Consider Mental Health After a Crisis

Once the emergency has passed, the work isn’t over. In fact, some of the most important steps happen after the dust has settled. A critical incident can leave lasting emotional scars, especially for children. PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common reactions to traumatic events, and it’s important to address these issues as soon as possible.

Keep an eye on your kids’ behaviour. If they’re having trouble sleeping, expressing feelings of fear, or displaying regressive behaviours (like bed-wetting or thumb-sucking), they may be struggling emotionally. Seek professional support if needed. Therapy, support groups, or simply talking with a trusted adult can help your child process their feelings in a healthy way.

The whole family should be patient with each other. Everyone may process the trauma differently. Some might need more time to open up, while others may want to talk about it immediately. Just be there for each other, showing empathy and understanding.