In collaboration with Councilmen Tom LaBonge and Mitchell Englander, this month’s Emergency Management Department (EMD) bulletin highlights earthquake planning for children.

Earthquakes strike fear in the hearts of almost every adult, but can even be more traumatic for children. To reduce the anxiety experienced by children, one of the best practices to implement is preparation. If a child is knowledgeable of the facts and expectations regarding earthquakes, they will feel more in control during a crisis situation. Here are some useful links that will make understanding an earthquake fun:

There are many special considerations that must be made when planning for earthquakes with children. It is important that adults talk to their children about their family emergency plan and the specific actions that should be taken before, during and after an earthquake. Below is a checklist of information that should be discussed:

  • Include children in discussions and planning for emergency safety.
  • Rehearse the Drop, Cover, and Hold-On procedures during earthquake.
  • Know two escape routes from your residence and from each room.
  • Designate primary meeting areas and alternate meeting areas in case of an evacuation
  • Be alert for unusual or strange smells and alert an adult if something is detected or encountered.
  • Never touch fallen poles or electrical wires.
  • In case of separation, children should know their family’s personal information such as: How to spell their full name, their parents’ names, their phone numbers, address, and other appropriate
  • information.
  • Ensure every family member has an “emergency card” which includes the information above plus the phone number of the out-of-state contact.
  • Children should know how to dial long distance or pre-program cell phones with the out of state
  • contact’s name and phone number.
  • Children should know how and when to dial 911.
  • Practice role-playing what to tell the 911 dispatcher.
  • Practice role-playing what to do when a parent or caregiver becomes suddenly ill or injured.
  • Notify your children’s school of any home address changes, phone numbers, and authorized persons that are allowed to pick up your children.
  • Find out the emergency procedures of your child’s school.
  • If you have a child with a disability, be sure to have a list of medications, prescribing doctor’s name and phone number, dosage, what it is for, how the medication is taken and minimum supply of 3 days.
  • If your child uses an assistive device for mobility or communication needs, ensure that instructions on how to use or transport the devices are included in your family emergency kit and in emergency kits you provide to other organizations that care for your child, i.e. child care, school, etc.