Check out the basics that you should cover with your kids to ensure that they are prepared enough to know what to do, especially if you’re unable to help them in an emergency!

Calling 9-1-1
We’ve all heard stories of toddlers saving lives by calling 911, which shows it’s never too early to teach kids about this life-saving service. Make sure your child knows only to call in a true emergency, taking time to explain what does and doesn’t count. You should also help them practice what to tell the dispatcher, including name, address and why they’re calling.

Emergency Drills
Just like kids do fire drills at school, you’ll want to practice these at home as well. This gives them a low-pressure practice environment so they know what to do in an actual emergency.

You should also talk to them about location-specific scenarios like earthquakes or tornadoes, and teach them moves such as Stop, Drop and Roll or Drop, Cover and Hold On.

Meeting Places
Since it might not be possible to get home in an emergency, you’ll want to determine two or three other places the family can meet. Your children should know how to get to each place, or at least how to tell a trusted adult where to take them.

Bug-out Bags
You should have a bug-out bag (small BOB) for each of your children in case you have to leave home during a crisis. These bags should include things like snacks, a flashlight, parent contact information and possibly some warm clothes.

In your bug-out bag, you’ll want to keep copies of key documents like birth certificates and recent photos, as well as any needed medications for your kids.

Prepare yourself for the worst-case scenario, but do your part in preparing your kids.

Teaching children to be self-sufficient is one of the most valuable life tools you can give them. For more information on helping kids learn preparation skills, take a look at American Preppers Network!