WHAT EVERY PARENT NEEDS TO KNOW FOR PREPARING FOR A POWER OUTAGE
A big focus on the news over the past few days has been on Florence. With hurricane season sweeping in fast, it is a huge reminder that emergency preparedness is of great important for every household. One thing at the top of the list to be prepared for is a power outage. Being without power is no fun for adults but can be a nightmare for families with small children or children with special needs. This article will highlight a few ideas to consider when preparing for the lights going out.
Let there be light
Make sure that you have plenty of flashlights with fresh batteries. If you have a child who is particularly fearful of the dark, Consider purchasing a special flashlight or lantern that is easy for your little one to hold. Be sure to have some glow sticks wands, brackets and necklaces on hand. Glow sticks are a safe and fun way to lighten up the situation.
Box of Fun
Prepare a special emergency box of fun activities, books and games that your child will enjoy. The idea is to have a box of toys that they haven’t played with in while or are new and will entertain them for a while. It’s a good idea to incorporate a few sensory activities and fidget toys.
Charge it Up
Most of you know I’m not a huge fan of electronics to entertain the kids all day long. However, tablets and laptops aren’t just used for curing cabin fever; they are used for medical and behavioral health interventions too. If you use technology for important everyday tasks, have a non-electronic back up. For example, a manual wheelchair instead of the battery operated chair; picture cards or communication board instead of the tablet. Take an inventory technology items and additional energy supplies you might need. Charge all electronics up before the big storm. Have extra batteries on hand, for electronics, tablets, toys, flashlights and medical equipment.
Meals, Snacks and water oh my
It’s important to be prepared by having the supplies you need on hand. It will help reduce stress if you have non-perishable foods in the house that your kids enjoy. You definitely want to keep the fridge or freezer closed. The less you open and close the door will keep the food fresher. So you will want to have bottled water, snacks, and pantry type food on hand to get you through the hours without power.
Refuel
In case of an evacuation be sure to keep your automobile’s fuel tank full. Many gas stations will not be in operation during a power outage. The last thing you want is to be stuck on the road with an empty tank and screaming kids during a storm.
Beat Boredom
Here are a few rain day activities to beat boredom:
- Play a board game
- Put together a puzzle
- Make a blanket fort
- Go on a scavenger hunt
- Have a dance party
- Make your own instruments and create a band
- Have fun with play dough
- Do a arts and craft project
- Compete in LEGO building competition
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