Hurricane Planning for Families with Children
When creating a plan consider the needs of each family member.
Planning for Families with Children
Hurricanes can be particularly challenging for families with children, requiring careful planning to ensure the safety and well-being of all family members. This guide provides detailed information on how families with children can prepare for a hurricane, addressing the unique needs of infants, adolescents, and teenagers.
Why Preparation is Different for Families with Children
Families with children face specific challenges during a hurricane, such as:
Varying Needs: Infants, adolescents, and teenagers have different needs in terms of supplies, nutrition, and emotional support.
Mobility: Ensuring all family members can evacuate safely, including managing young children or infants who may require special transportation.
Emotional Impact: Children may experience higher levels of stress and anxiety during emergencies, necessitating additional emotional support and reassurance.
General Preparation Tips
Create a Family Emergency Plan: Develop a comprehensive plan that includes evacuation routes, meeting points, and emergency contacts. Practice the plan regularly with all family members.
Build an Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit tailored to your family’s needs. Include:
Non-perishable food and water (at least three days’ supply for each family member)
Medications and medical supplies
Important documents (IDs, insurance papers, etc.)
Battery-operated or hand-crank radio
Flashlights and extra batteries
Personal hygiene items
Comfort items for children (toys, blankets, books)
First aid kit
Stay Informed: Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications from local authorities. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive warnings, such as through TV, radio, and mobile apps.
Family Safety Plan
Include a plan for you and your family just in case of emergency.
Personal Preparation
Preparing for a hurricane will be different for different families. We have provided links to resources below.