Organizing your kids in a Hurricane

Children are very sensitive to any major changes in their lives so you can only imagine the impact that a hurricane or anticipation of one will have on your kids. It’s been 6 years since our last devastating hurricane and our kids are still feeling the emotional affects of the storm. Fortunately, we did not have the loss of life of those who experienced Hurricane Katrina, but moving forward we need to do things differently. Weather patterns have changed and storms have become more intense and our children need to know how to survive too.

OK! Let’s pull ourselves together here.

1.      Talk to your kids about hurricanes. Ask them what they know about them. Start your dialogue there.

Another good way to get the communication rolling is through books. You can also check out your local bookstore or library and they may have kids’ books on hurricanes or simply purchase one on-line. Search for children’s books,  or hurricane according to the age of your child.

2.      This may sound a little silly but if you happen to find yourself in a flooded home and you can’t venture outside, a small inflatable boat, or floating device (inflatable rafts) will be a welcome item. Many children’s lives were saved because they were placed on these items during excessive flooding during a storm. You would be in awe to see how fast water rises during a flood. 

3.      Their Getaway Tote should be almost the same as for an adult except for a few other items: toothpaste, toothbrush, disinfectant wipes, 4 rolls of toilet paper, mini garbage bags for sanitary purposes, a small potty, sanitizer, light blanket, sleeping bag, small cushion (used for pillow and seat), dried fruits and nuts, candy, salty snacks, books, crayons, electronic games (mmmm… to pack or not to pack)J, a favorite stuffed animal, 4 days change of clothes. Be aware that depending on the humidity clothes may take longer to dry outside especially if it continues to rain on and off.   Thick leather boots or sneakers are a must have after a hurricane for kids. They will protect their feet when they are  outside playing in or outside.

4.      Keep a close eye on your kids this is the perfect time for fevers to break out because of stress and germs in the environment. In any event fevers mean infections so go to a hospital as soon as possible.

Storms are nothing to take lightly, so organize well ahead of time to ensure that you are prepared and safe.