Teaching Your Child to Make an Emergency Call

We see stories in the news of children who heroically called 911 to save a parent or other person in an urgent situation where help was required. Have you taught your child what to do in an event of an emergency? You should consider teaching your child when they can recite their address, around age four or five. It could save your life, or that of a loved one.

What they need to know: Before you teach your child to call 911 it’s important for them to first know what an emergency is and what is not. An emergency could be a house fire, Mom or Dad getting really hurt or not waking up, or even a “bad guy” that threatens the family’s safety. But things like a lost/stolen ipad, a scraped knee, or a lost pet do not constitute an emergency. Make sure they have a clear understanding of this subject and that calling 911 is a tool to use only in an emergency.

What’s in Your First Aid Kit?

Accidents happen every day. Most of them are small and only require a kiss to make them better. But sometimes, first aid is required. Being prepared is the key when these events happen so we can remain calm and take care of our child, or whoever needs our loving care. Having a stocked and up-to-date first aid kit is important in these instances. Do you have one in your home? Do you know what’s in it? Do you know how to use the items? Is anything expired? If you are building a new kit or updating one you already have, here are some tips to know how to be prepared.

Where should you store a first aid kit? It should be stored in a cool, dry place and be readily available to adults, but out of reach from children. Do not store it in the bathroom where it can get moist. Make sure everyone in the house knows where it is, including anyone who comes to care for your children while you are away. A first aid kit should also be kept in your vehicle. You never know when a fall at the park may require some bandaging or a sudden allergic reaction needs to be addressed.