With continuous media coverage of the tragic Los Angeles wildfires and red flag warnings throughout Southern California, many San Diegans are feeling anxious about the potential for fires in the region. While natural disasters, such as wildfires, can be scary for everyone, children may be especially frightened and not yet have the tools to express or cope with their concerns.
According to the American Red Cross, wildfires are among the most common disasters affecting California. So, preparing Golden State children for such a disaster is essential.
Here are four tips for preparing children for wildfires:
1
Explain wildfire preparedness in a kid-friendly way
Wildfires are a scary subject, especially for children who may not fully understand what they are and what to do when they strike. Explain wildfires in simple terms and encourage children to ask questions. Validate their fears and emotions and let them know you, first responders and other adults will help keep them safe.
Consider your child’s age and level of comprehension when you have these discussions. Then, review steps for how your family can prepare.
Knowing that you are prepared can help relieve anxiety for adults and children alike. If they feel confident that you are doing everything you can to keep them safe, they are less likely to experience distress when the subject of wildfires or other natural disasters arises.
2
Build a disaster kit together as a family
Creating a preparedness kit, also known as a go-kit, with your child will help them feel safe and ready.
The Red Cross recommends that a kit should include:
A list of prescribed medications and extra refills for all family members, in case pharmacies are closed
Extra clothing, diapers and formula for at least three days
Toiletries and sanitary products for at least three days
At least 2 gallons of water per person per day for at least three days
A supply of nonperishable food for people and pets for at least three days
Flashlights and batteries
Pet supplies, including leashes, kennels or carriers
First-aid kit
Cell phone chargers
Key information, such as IDs, health insurance cards, medical information for all family members and pets, emergency contact information (family members, friends and doctors), financial information (bank records and credit card details), insurance policy information, and a family photo or individual photos of each family member
Age-appropriate games and activities, so kids can have something to do while waiting in a shelter
Because wildfire evacuation orders can come quickly, make sure your list of medications and all other key information is saved on digital cloud-based storage. This will enable you to access the information remotely if personal devices are lost or you are unable to grab your family's go-kit.
3
Help them learn important information
It’s important that your child knows key information that can help them stay safe. That includes their first name, last name and a parent's telephone number as soon as they are old enough to remember.
Children should also know how to call 911, where the family "go-kit" is located, and the exact steps they should take if your family must evacuate your home.
4
Make a plan
Include your child in discussions about your family disaster plan. Discuss the best ways to get out of your home and the family meeting place, how you will communicate, and who to call if you become separated. Most importantly, practice what you'll do in an emergency. Having regular home fire drills can ease anxiety, improve evacuation time and save lives.
You can keep a copy of the disaster plan in your child’s backpack, so they have it with them at all times. To help your child feel safe outside your home, talk with their teachers or daycare providers about their onsite disaster plans and discuss the plans with your child in language they will understand.
The most important thing to do if a wildfire is burning near you is to get family members and pets out safely.
Know where to get reliable news and information about wildfires and evacuations and evacuate immediately if told by authorities to do so. If you are trapped and unable to evacuate for any reason, call 911.
Learn more about wildfire safety in San Diego by visiting the Fire Safe Council of San Diego website.
