Emergency Preparedness Kits for Kids

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Emergency kits are very useful to have in case of an emergency, whether it's a natural disaster, large scale family emergency, or something small. I have an emergency backpack that I keep in my car, and it is fantastic to have. I've used it for all sorts of things that aren't for a natural disaster - things like a lighter for a candle, band-aids when I ran out, or for an anti-bacterial/anti-pain ointment when I got a bad cut on my finger. Emergency kits definitely have their use for things other than big emergencies.

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As an adult, there are several things that you may not think to include in an emergency kit for kids, to help them cope with the trauma they are experiencing, so here's a few ideas of some items that may not typically be included in emergency kits.

• A RED wash cloth - Since kids are more likely to panic or get upset by the sight of blood, having a red or dark wash cloth to put on wounds helps them to stay calm, since they can't see the blood.
• A comfort item such as a stuffed animal or a blanket. This can be helpful to kids since it gives them an object to self soothe with.
• Family pictures - These are great because they can help give kids something to focus on, and it can help give them comfort in case they are separated from you or other family members. Your contact information, or your emergency out of state contact information can also be included in case they get lost.
• For young children and infants, make sure you have enough of their supplies such as diapers, wipes, formula, medicine, etc, and make sure you have enough water to clean the bottles in between feedings as well.
• Powdered or boxed milk - often, children need or want milk. Having some powdered milk on

  

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  hand to mix with water can help them get extra nutrients. Stores also have milk that can be stored just like a juice box - some places, such as Gossner's in Logan, even have little boxes of flavored milk!

While these items are important to have, it's also good to not forget the essential items, such as making sure you have a 3 day supply of food, water, local maps, a whistle, etc.

Click here for a complete list of emergency supplies for kids (the above items listed are additional items not found on the list.)

What tips have you found to be useful as you prepare your family for an emergency, whether big or small?

-Kim