Families should ensure their kids know what to do when a crisis happens at home, during Emergency Preparedness Month.
Overton County Assistant EMA Director Eric Stephens said parents should teach their kids how to do basic first aid and how to call 911 if there is an emergency. Stephens said schools may prepare students with drills, and families should do the same.
“I would practice fire drill, tornado, you know, where do we go to hide for shelter?” Stephens said. “Where are we going to go in case of a fire on either end of the home, if it’s upper or lower level. You know, where we’re going to meet at in the yard, those type of things. And practice that.”
Stephens said it helps for kids to know how to get in touch with neighbors or relatives if they are unable to access a phone at home. Stephens said kids should also be careful while playing outside to prevent emergency.
Stephens said it is important for kids to stay calm during an emergency. Stephens said parents can walk through breathing exercises with their kids to keep them settled down.
“The main thing is don’t run,” Stephens said. “Everybody wants to run. Just take it slow and talk to them. Of course, there’s always that excitement, adrenaline gets pumping. We’ve got to slow down and think.”
Stephens said emergencies can not be predicted, so a child’s understanding of the situation is vital. Stephens said with practice, the proper action could become second nature in a real emergency.
Stephens said EMA prefers everyone to have their phones on them in an emergency, but many kids do not carry a cell phone. Stephens said if a kid has to call 911 for help, but lacks the information needed, dispatchers can help walk them through the situation.
“Maybe if someone’s breaking into a home, dispatchers can talk them through what to do,” Stephens said. “Where to hide, flip a light on. There’s many options we can use if we’re on the phone with them as far as dispatcher goes.”
Stephens said EMA works best with landmarks, so kids should be aware of the places near where they live to better receive help. In addition, Stephens said families should pack an emergency kit with water, snacks, and first aid supplies in case it is needed.