The best time to prepare for an emergency is
before
it happens. Make sure your family knows emergency phone numbers and
your kids know how to place a call for help.
Need-to-Know Numbers
During an emergency, it's easy to become disoriented and
upset, so you need to have all important phone numbers readily
available ahead of time.
Write each phone number clearly so that it will be easy for kids
to read. Use a pen with dark-colored ink or type it on the computer
because pencil or light-colored ink can be harder to read when
you're in a hurry or if lights are dim. If you choose to create
your own phone list, make sure it includes these numbers:
- emergency medical services: In most places this is 911, but
your community may have its own number - check your telephone
book if you're unsure.
- poison control center: 1-800-222-1222. This toll-free number
will put you in touch with the poison control center in your
area.
- hospital emergency room
- fire department
- police department
- your child's doctor
- parents' work
- parents' cell phone and/or pager
- neighbors and/or relatives
Your list should also include known
allergies
(especially to any medication),
medical conditions
, and insurance information for all members of the family.
Because accidents can happen in any part of the home, make
copies of the completed list and post one near every telephone in
the house. Be sure to carry one with you, and keep one in the car
as well. In addition, make sure that people who come to the house
to watch your children (
babysitters
or relatives, for example) familiarize themselves with the
list.
Teaching Kids How to Call for Help
Even very young children can be taught
how to place an emergency call
for help.
To place a call to 911 and talk to the operator, your child
should know:
- how to dial 911
- his or her full name
- his or her full address
- how to give a short description of the emergency
Have your child practice by speaking into a telephone (make sure
the telephone is
off
). Suggest a situation, such as "Mommy's fallen down the
stairs and can't get to the phone. Now what do you
do?"
After your child enters the number, prompt him or her with
questions that an emergency operator would ask, such as "What
is your name?," "Where are you calling from?," and
"What is the emergency?" Stress that the description
should be short ("Mommy fell down the stairs") and that
he or she should try to stay calm. Practice until your child feels
comfortable.
No one wants to think about an emergency happening at home, but
it's better to face that possibility than to be caught
unprepared. So keep emergency numbers close by - it's a small
step that could have big consequences.
Reviewed by:
Kate M. Cronan, MD
Date reviewed: October 2008
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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