Teach your kids emergency lessons

Emergency Preparedness Week (May 5-11) is the perfect time to make sure your child knows what to do in crisis or disaster. Here are some tips for you and your family from Public Safety Canada:


• Make sure your child knows the emergency exits from your home.

• Create a designated family meeting place in case of emergency.

• Assemble an emergency kit, and make sure your children know where it is. An emergency kit list is available at www.GetPrepared.ca.

• Give your children the names of out-of-town contacts and practice getting in touch with them.

• Teach your children how and when to call 911.

• Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector, smoke detector and fire extinguisher.

• Make sure everyone knows where to find the fire extinguisher.

• Familiarize yourself with your child's school or daycare for their emergency policies. How will they reach you during an emergency? What authorization is needed to release your child to someone other than yourself?

• Ensure the school /daycare has updated contact information for all parents, caregivers and designated pick-up persons.

By planning ahead, you and family will be better able to cope when an emergency happens. You can create your own emergency plan online and get more practical tips on preparing for emergencies at www.GetPrepared.ca.

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