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Prepare Children for Hurricanes

Hurricane Readiness

Talk with your children prior to hurricane season. Teach them some basic concepts about weather and its effects in terms they can understand. Use the television news or pictures in magazines as teaching tools. Explain that a hurricane is a difficult situation but that it can be handled. Never dismiss a question.

Prepare children for the reality of a hurricane. Just as you would have a fire drill, have a similar drill for a hurricane. Make preparation plans which will be readily accepted.

• Encourage children to listen and follow instructions.
  
• Make plans of what you would do if a hurricane is eminent.
  
• Go through steps for safety, show them the most protected areas of the house to wait out the storm, etc.
  
• Have them make a list of the important items they want to pack for safekeeping.
  
• Participation of children prior to the onset of a hurricane makes them feel less vulnerable and more confident.
  
• Let them help you assemble an emergency kit, pack your important items or shop for hurricane provisions.
  
• Have them pack their favorite clothes and toys in plastic bags to protect from water damage.
  
• Give them their own flashlight.
• Create a family disaster plan.