How To Make a Child-Size 72-Hour Kit

Having a 72-hour kit for each member of the family is important.  It is vitally important for children to have their own 72-hour kits as well, instead of combing their items into an adult's kit.  Although it would seem like it would make more sense to combine the kits, that is not the case.

It is not difficult to create a 72-hour kit for children if it is known what is needed.  In fact, having these made for every child in the family brings a sense of peace, knowing that the children in the family are just as prepared as the adults, should an emergency arise and the need for a 72-hour kit is apparent.

There are certain guidelines that are suggested by FEMA to go in every 72-hour kit, and the kits of children are no exception.  First, there must be enough food and water to sustain life.  Other necessary items are going to include a small flashlight and extra batteries.  Having a copy of some important documents is also a good idea.  While the originals should remain in a safe place or readily accessible by an adult, having a copy in the 72-hour kit the children will use could be a life saving measure, should the child be separated from his or her parents in a chaotic situation.

In addition to life saving necessities such as food and water, it is also necessary to take the child's age into consideration when putting together an effective 72-hour kit.  Children need to feel safe no matter what the situation is, and a large part of making sure they feel that way is to include familiar items and activities in the kit.  Books to read or a deck of cards may be helpful in keeping children focused on something other than the emergency that required them to have to utilize the 72-hour kit.

Once all of those important items are put into a 72-hour kit for each child, it is essential that the child know why this is needed and under what circumstances it may be needed.  Children can understand quite a bit if explained to them in an age appropriate manner.  Armed with good information and all the needed supplies in the 72-hour kit, the children in the family will be ready for a crisis.  The adults will be confident that the children will be able handle whatever comes their way, and that could make all the difference between just surviving and being somewhat comfortable.