“Make it” Monday:  DIY Emergency Kits for Kids

Dahlia starts preschool this week and though I am excited for her, reality is setting in that she’s growing up to be a sweet little lady.  I want to protect her as much as I can and also provide her with anything that she needs.  When we got a list for an emergency kit for preschool, I instantly got that pit in my stomach and knew that anything could happen at any given moment.  So, I wanted to be prepared for her.  

Here’s what I prepared for her school kit  and remember, it’s important to have an emergency kit for home and in the car.  

Suggested Emergency Kit Items:

• 1-2 juice boxes or water (do not use plastic water bottles if your emergency kit will be placed in a car)
• 2-4 fruit snacks or fruit rolls
• 1-2 granola bars
• 1-2 cans of sustainable tuna or protein source 
• 1-2 cheese crackers individually wrapped
• 1-2 cups of applesauce
• 1-2 fruit or pudding cups 
• 5-10 Band-Aids
• Wet wipes
• Napkins
• Small Pack of Crayons
• Activity Book
• Small Book or Toy
• Family Photos
• 1-2 Spoons
• Any medication your child may need 

The last step to prepare your kit is to place all items in a gallon-sized plastic bag and store in a cool dry place.  Items are usually enough for 72 hours for one child.  

  
    
 Others things to consider:

• Don’t forget items for the rest of your family if you are going to prepare an emergency kit for home.  Pets also need food and water too.
• If you are storing anything at home, a flame-retardant safe might be a be a good place to keep your items.
• If storing in a car, it’s best if you keep items in a backpack that’s easy to grab in the trunk.
• Check your items each year & replace expired foods.
• Include other items like thermal blankets and flashlights that you can think of in separate kits.
• Lastly, if your work or city offers community emergency response training, I encourage you to take the classes.  It’s always better to be prepared than not.