Surviving Bad Weather and Storms with Babies and Small Children: Essential Tips

Hurricane season can be a scary and stressful time for families, especially when also taking care of little ones. Planning ahead and knowing what to do can make a huge difference. Here are some practical tips to keep your baby and small children safe and comfortable during bad weather, storms, and hurricanes.

1. Stock Up on Essentials Early

Prepare at least two weeks' worth of baby supplies:

• Diapers and wipes: Keep extras on hand to last through potential power outages or store closures.
• Baby formula or food: Whether you breastfeed or bottle-feed, have enough stored. For formula-feeding families, ensure you have bottled water for mixing, as tap water may become unsafe.
• Medications: Stock up on any necessary medications for both adults and children, including fever reducers like Tylenol or Ibuprofen.

2. Create a Safe Shelter Space

Designate an area in your home that is secure and comfortable for you and your children during the storm. Equip it with:

• Blankets and pillows: Comfort items will help babies and toddlers feel secure.
• Battery-operated fans: If power goes out, these can help prevent overheating.
• Flashlights: Keep child-friendly flashlights available to reduce fear in the dark.

3. Prepare for Evacuations

If an evacuation becomes necessary, be ready:

• Pack a go-bag: Include baby essentials like diapers, wipes, clothes, formula, and comfort items.
• Car seat readiness: Make sure your car seat is installed and ready to go at a moment’s notice.
• Find shelter options: Some shelters are designated as “baby-friendly,” so research ahead of time and identify safe spaces.

4. Maintain Calm for Emotional Comfort

Young children can pick up on the stress of their parents, so it’s important to remain calm:

• Create distractions: Have a selection of small toys, books, or even music to keep your child entertained and calm during the storm.
• Stay informed: Follow updates from trusted sources but shield children from too much exposure to stressful news.

5. Health and Hygiene

Without running water, hygiene can become a concern.

• Hand sanitizer and wipes: These are critical for keeping hands and surfaces clean, especially when dealing with baby bottles or food.
• Safe sleep space: If you have to share sleeping spaces, ensure babies still sleep on their backs on a firm surface to reduce SIDS risk.

Preparation is key to minimizing stress and keeping your family safe during tropical storms and hurricanes. By organizing your supplies, having a plan in place, and staying calm, you can ensure that your baby or small child stays safe and comfortable during challenging weather conditions.

Stay safe!