Family activity: build an emergency kit with your kids

You know you need an emergency kit. Yet with so much on your plate, you haven’t gotten to it. The solution? Make it a fun family activity! Here’s how:

Talk to your kids about preparedness: Talk with your children about different types of emergencies and the things you will need. Run through some situations that could happen, like having no tap water or no electricity. You are more prepared than you think!

Make your list, and go shopping: Make your emergency kit checklist and go on a fun shopping trip. Involve your children in picking out the items. Let each of your children pick out a treat to stash away in the emergency kit. The more they take part, the more fun they’ll have.

Pack your kit: Compile your supplies in one area and ask your children to help you pack them in an easy-to-carry container, like a plastic storage bin or a duffle bag.

Add a refresh card: Food and water expire over time. A refresh card is a list taped to the top of your emergency kit that says which items need to be replaced and when. You can write this by hand, or make it on the computer. Add a reminder in your phone or on your family calendar to check your refresh card before each item expires. That way you can still use the food in your normal meal prep.

Find a spot to keep your kit: Brainstorm with your children where you will keep your kit. Two of the best places are in a garage, or on the main level of your home near a door. Try not to keep it in the basement where it might get flooded.

Don’t forget to remind your children they’re safe and protected. The emergencies you’ve discussed may never happen; building your emergency kit is just one of the ways, like having smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, that you keep them safe.

Family activity: build an emergency kit with your kids

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