Wildfires can happen with little warning, and while adults often focus on evacuation routes
and emergency supplies, children experience these events very differently. They may feel
confused, anxious, or unsure about what is happening around them.
As parents and caregivers, it’s natural to want to shield kids from scary situations. But
when children know what to expect and have a simple plan, they often feel more confident
and less anxious. Preparing together for wildfire preparedness also creates an opportunity to teach important safety
skills they’ll carry with them as they grow.
Parent’s Guide to Wildfire Preparedness Steps:
Start with Calm, Honest Conversations
Children notice when adults are worried. Instead of avoiding the topic, create opportunities
for open conversations that are reassuring rather than frightening.
Keep explanations simple and focus on what children can do to stay safe instead of
emphasizing worst case scenarios. Encourage questions and let them know it’s okay to
share their feelings.
The goal isn’t to alarm children, it’s to help them understand that having a plan is
something families do to stay safe.
Practice Your Family’s Evacuation Plan
Just like schools practice fire drills, families can practice wildfire evacuations. One of the
best ways to reduce stress during an emergency is to practice ahead of time.
Walk through your evacuation plan with your children so they understand:
- How everyone will leave the home safely
- Where your family will meet if separated
- Which trusted adults they can go to if they cannot reach a parent immediately
Children can practice: - Putting on their shoes quickly
- Finding their emergency backpack
- Walking to the family vehicle
- Following directions calmly
Practicing ahead of time makes real emergencies feel less overwhelming.
Let Kids Help Build an Emergency Kit
Children are more likely to remember emergency preparedness when they’re involved.
Invite them to help pack a family emergency kit. Depending on their age, they can gather
items like:
- A favorite stuffed animal or comfort items
- Books or quiet activities
- A flashlight
- A refillable water bottle
- Any personal items they’ll want if they must leave home quickly
When children help prepare their own bag, they’re more likely to remember where it is and
feel involved in the family’s safety plan.
Teach Smoke Safety
Wildfire smoke can affect people even when flames are far away. Teach children that when smoke is heavy outside, it’s important to:
- Staying indoors when adults say the air quality is unhealthy
- Keeping windows and doors closed when smoke is present
- Telling an adult if they have trouble breathing, coughing, or feel unwell
- Following school or family instructions about outdoor activities
Help them understand that these precautions are simply another way families stay healthy
during wildfire season.
Keep Important Information Together
Children should know basic family information appropriate for their age. Older kids may
benefit from memorizing or carrying:
- Parent or guardian phone numbers
- Home address
- Emergency contacts
It’s also helpful for parents to keep important documents and emergency contact
information in an easily accessible location in case evacuation becomes necessary.
Make Preparedness Part of Everyday Life
Wildfire preparedness doesn’t have to be a one time conversation. Reviewing your family’s
plan before wildfire season, updating emergency supplies, and practicing evacuation
routes together can become part of your annual routine.
The goal isn’t to make children worry about emergencies, it’s to help them feel capable. A
little preparation today can make a big difference if your family.
Today’s guest post was written by Madison Griffin, an advocacy assistant for the Fire Help Center. The Fire Help Center provides guides and resources for caregivers and parents to tackle the difficult topic of wildfire preparedness.