Disasters and emergencies can happen with little to no warning. Is your family ready?

I still recall when my wife and I brought our first child home from the hospital. We were lovestruck but absolutely exhausted parents. On one of the first nights back, the building’s fire alarm went off. We jumped out of bed, bleary-eyed and half asleep. We fumbled in the dark grabbing clothes, diapers and baby supplies and rushed out into the night with our newborn. Chaos.

Whether it’s a flood, hurricane, power outage or something else, planning ahead can make a huge difference in your child’s safety and your family’s peace of mind.

Here are some simple steps you can take now.

Step 1: Know your risks

Preparing for all possible emergencies can feel overwhelming, so start with the threats most likely in your area. For example, in the Washington DC area we’ve seen flooding, extreme heat and power outages.

Sign up for emergency alerts through city, state and national emergency alert systems. Your child’s school may also have a system to send out alerts.

Step 2: Build your family emergency kit

Think of your kit as a three-day lifeline. Include essentials like:

• Water – one gallon per person per day
• Non-perishable food plus a can opener
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste and soap
• Medications including extras for chronic conditions like asthma
• Phone chargers or battery packs
• Local maps and emergency contact numbers
• Important documents in a waterproof container
• Cash

Consider adding child-friendly items like glow sticks or comfort items to ease anxiety. Keep your “go bag” at home or in your car. For ideas on what to pack in a family disaster kit, check out Creating a family emergency plan and disaster kit and Ready.gov.

Step 3: Include the kids

Kids can and should be part of the process if they’re old enough. Encourage them to:

• Pack their own bag with essentials
• Choose a favorite stuffed animal or blanket
• Bring a book, puzzle, game or coloring supplies
• Include a family photo and emergency contact list
• Add baby supplies like diapers, wipes, bottles and formula if needed

Turn it into a scavenger hunt or fun game to keep them engaged.

Step 4: Make a family emergency plan

Having a plan matters as much as supplies. Ask yourself:

• Do your kids know what to do if you’re separated?
• Where will your family meet if cell phones aren’t working?
• Who is your out-of-town emergency contact?

Make sure every family member knows:

• How to reach emergency services (for instance, call 911)
• Where emergency kits are stored
• How to safely evacuate your home
• What to do if they’re at school or daycare during an emergency

Consider teaching basic first aid or including a simple checklist with your kit. See Creating a family travel first aid kit for ideas that also work at home.

Small steps, big impact

Emergency preparedness for families doesn’t have to be daunting. Focus on one step at a time — from building a simple emergency kit to making a family plan — and involve your kids along the way for peace of mind and safety.

For more information, check out this resource guide and podcast from the Pediatric Pandemic Network.

This is the first in a 4-part series for National Preparedness Month. Stay tuned all month-long during September as we share more family-friendly tips.