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Guidelines for Preparing for Storms With Anxious Children | SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte to help you recover.
The roar of thunder, flashes of lightning and blaring tornado sirens create a chaotic scene. Your dog paces anxiously, while your kids are on edge. Storm situations can be terrifying, especially in our community.
While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare how to react effectively to keep everyone calm and safe, especially our little ones.
Keep reading for tips on how to plan for storms as a family, ensuring everyone remains calm, cool and collected when emergencies strike.
Cloudy days vs. sunny ones may seem obvious, but knowing when clouds signal danger can be more difficult. Teach your kids to spot rotating clouds, dark or green skies and the sound of thunder and lightning, prompting them to seek shelter immediately.
Familiarize them with the sound of tornado sirens during tests, helping them learn to recognize the sound and its significance. Practice listening for the sirens and time how quickly they can reach the designated safe shelter.
Have you crafted a storm emergency plan with your family? Discuss how and when to reach your safe shelter, and ensure your emergency kit is packed and ready.
Choose the lowest level of your home, ideally a windowless inner room, as your safe haven. Keep the area clear and practice building a fort with heavy objects like tables or desks for added protection.
Involve your kids in assembling the emergency kit, selecting essentials, favorite snacks and shelf-stable water. Personalize flashlights with their names, and add extra batteries, candles, matches and medications.
It’s also a good idea to let your kids choose special games or activities to use during severe weather situations, providing a welcome distraction during power outages or extended shelter periods.
Severe weather can unsettle even adults, let alone children. Reassure them that severe destruction or direct tornado hits are rare occurrences. Most storm damage typically targets roofs, siding and property surroundings.
Keep your kids calm and engaged during weather events, using a light-hearted approach to narrate the unfolding events. Together, you’ll navigate severe weather with confidence and composure.
Storm damage should always be addressed quickly. Contact SERVPRO® day or night for the restoration services you need.