Emergencies and crises can happen at any time. From health emergencies to natural disasters to home and personal safety, these are all potential incidents that require a united front from parents. Coming together as co-parents through these stressful situations helps keep your children safe and ensures that both parents can respond effectively when something goes wrong.
Have you discussed the possibility of how to proceed as co-parents in the face of an emergency? If not, now is the time to have that conversation. Here are three key emergency-preparedness planning considerations to review to ensure both parents are on the same page if and when disaster strikes.
First, you need to decide who the primary contacts are. These are the people you call first in an emergency. Both parents should have each other’s phone numbers, email addresses, and any other ways to get in touch. You may have multiple email addresses and preferred modes of communication (WhatsApp, text messaging, Facebook Messenger etc.), so ensure to identify which is your preferred method and verify that this contact information is up-to-date.
Next, you need an emergency communication protocol, outlining how you will keep in touch during emergencies. Make a list of the details that need to be shared, such as where the emergency is, what happened, and what help is needed. Also, determine the method of communication you will use to keep each other updated. Having a plan for communication helps ensure both parents are always in the loop.
Each parent should have a list of emergency contacts. This list should include trusted neighbours, family members who live nearby, friends, and the phone numbers for local police, fire department, and hospital. Including your child’s doctor’s name and phone number is also crucial. Both parents should have the same list, and it should be updated regularly and kept in an easy-to-find place.
Each parent’s home should also have a basic emergency kit. This kit should include first aid supplies such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and gauze, any medications your child needs along with a list of what they take and when, a flashlight and extra batteries in case the power goes out, water and snacks enough for a few days in case you can’t leave the house, and important documents like copies of your child’s birth certificate, medical records, and contact list. Having these supplies ready can make a big difference in an emergency.
Practicing emergency drills ensures that everyone understands their role and actions when a crisis arises. For example, you should rehearse evacuating the house swiftly and safely in case of a fire, and designate a family meeting spot. Think through responses to other frequent emergencies, like floods and power outages. Additionally, your geographic location may expose you to specific risks such as earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, or severe storms. Conduct drills tailored to these events and practice them regularly. Lastly, establish a clear plan for emergencies that may happen while your children are at school. Decide who will pick them up and make sure the school or daycare has updated emergency contacts. By having well-defined plans, you reduce confusion and stress during critical moments.
Beyond the basics, consider implementing a few additional strategies in your co-parenting relationship. Designate a safe place in each home where important documents and emergency supplies are kept. Also, establish a code word or phrase that can be used to indicate an emergency without causing panic, especially useful if communicating through a third party or in a situation where discretion is needed.
Regularly review and update your plans to ensure they remain effective and relevant. Changes in living arrangements, contact information, or your child’s medical needs should prompt an immediate review of your emergency preparedness plan.
Being prepared helps you stay calm and act quickly when emergencies happen. Which is all the more reason to have a plan in place for when the unexpected occurs. It’s crucial to review and update these plans regularly, making sure both parents are always on the same page.
For more guidance and support on co-parenting, Shulman & Partners is here to help. We offer expert advice and resources to assist you in navigating these various co-parenting challenges.