Each year, the Atlantic hurricane season spans from June 1 to November 30. This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an above average hurricane season. While we are hoping for the best, it’s always a good idea to have a plan ready should a storm come our way.
For new or experienced mothers, hurricane season can throw a wrench in your world especially if you’re coordinating preparation efforts and caring for children simultaneously.
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Evacuation
In the event of a severe storm, you may plan to evacuate with your immediate family. Coordinate ahead of time if you’ll be seeking refuge with family, friends, or in a hotel/motel. Stay updated on the path and progress of the storm, fill your car with gas ahead of time, and have your hurricane kits ready to go to make evacuating easier. Leave any non-essential items.
Staying Home
If the storm is not severe, you may opt to stay home in lieu of upending your family’s routine by evacuating. This allows you and your family to stay within your comfort zone and potentially maintain a sense of normalcy.
If you already have young children, it is helpful to have indoor activities or games prepared to distract them and ease any fear or anxiety they may be feeling. In the event of a power outage, entertainment that does not rely on electricity would be best. This can range from board games, easy science experiments, crafts or books.
Feeding Your Family
Whether you’re staying or evacuating, it is important to have enough food on hand for your family. For the adults and toddlers in your family, non-perishable food, snacks, and clean drinking water will do. When it comes to feeding your baby, breast feeding is best during a disaster for the following reasons:
- Readily Available: Breast milk is always on hand and doesn’t require preparation or special storage conditions, making it incredibly convenient when resources are limited.
- Sanitary: It reduces the risk of contamination that can occur with formula feeding, especially when clean water and sterilization options are scarce.
- Nutritional and Immune Support: Breast milk provides complete nutrition and helps boost your baby’s immune system, which is crucial during stressful times.
Ask for Help
If you are feeling overwhelmed from having to coordinate your family’s evacuation or stay, don’t be afraid to ask for help from family, friends or neighbors. Whatever your plans, we’ve provided a checklist of recommended supplies to have on hand: