Get Ready for Anything: Fun DIY Emergency Preparedness Projects for Families
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1. Create a Family Emergency Kit
Why It’s Important: An emergency kit is essential for ensuring that your family has the supplies needed to stay safe during a crisis.
What You’ll Need:
Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)
Non-perishable food (enough for three days)
First-aid supplies
Flashlight and extra batteries
Whistle (to signal for help)
Multi-tool or can opener
Personal hygiene items
Local maps
Instructions:
Choose a sturdy, waterproof container (like a plastic bin) to store your emergency kit.
Involve the family in gathering supplies and packing the kit together.
Make it fun! Create colorful labels for each item and decorate the container.
2. Build a Communication Plan
Why It’s Important: In an emergency, knowing how to communicate with each other is crucial.
What You’ll Need:
Paper and pens
A family communication chart template
Instructions:
Create a family communication chart that includes emergency contact numbers and addresses.
Designate a family member who lives out of town as a point of contact.
Discuss how and when to check in with each other after an emergency.
Keep the chart in a visible location, like the fridge.
References for Templates:
Check out this FREE template from Habitat for Humanity or get creative and make your own that suits your needs!
https://cfmws.ca/CFMWS/media/OutcanUSA/Documents/Preparedness/Family-Communications-Plan.pdf
3. Emergency Go-Bag
Why It’s Important: Having a go-bag ready means you can evacuate quickly if needed.
What You’ll Need:
Backpack or duffel bag
Clothing (seasonally appropriate)
Personal items (medications, glasses)
Comfort items (favorite toy, book)
Instructions:
Each family member should have their own go-bag.
Use packing cubes or zip-lock bags to organize items within the bag.
Involve kids by letting them choose a comfort item to include.
4. Disaster Preparedness Games
Why It’s Important: Games make learning about preparedness enjoyable and memorable.
What You’ll Need:
Items from your emergency kit (water bottles, flashlights, etc.)
Scavenger hunt list
Instructions:
Create a scavenger hunt by hiding items around the house.
Provide clues related to emergency preparedness for each item.
Have family members work in teams to find all the items.
Example Clue: “This will help you see in the dark, and is found where you keep your snacks!” (leading to the flashlight)
Conclusion
Creating an emergency plan and kit can feel overwhelming, but by involving your family in fun and engaging DIY projects, you can build preparedness into your daily life. Turn these activities into cherished memories, and know that you’re all set for whatever comes your way.
Let’s make preparedness a family affair—together, we can ensure that no one faces disaster alone!
What DIY projects have you tried to prepare your family for emergencies? Share your ideas in the comments below!