PLANNING FOR PREGNANT WOMEN, BABIES & CHILDREN

Consider alternate birth plans & nutritional needs

Storm preparation shouldn’t happen at the last minute, especially if your family has an expectant mother, newborn or young child. As hurricane season begins June 1, keep the precious ones at the forefront by developing alternative plans if emergency management officials call for an evacuation, adding formula to the supply list and considering ways to soothe children during uneasy times.

Pregnant Women Should Have Alternate Birth Plan

According to the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition, pregnant women who may be giving birth at home should have an alternative plan in the event of an evacuation. During major storms, Monroe County officials could issue either a voluntary or a mandatory evacuation. Many local services such as emergency response and hospitals could be limited or even closed during evacuations, so pregnant women are encouraged to heed orders to leave.

An alternative birth plan should take into account finding a hospital that’s located away from the storm’s path, as well as having a place near the hospital to stay before the birth. Also, notify your local doctor about the hurricane plans.

Pregnant women should continue healthy habits such as exercising, reducing stress, taking prenatal vitamins, eating nutritious foods and following up on prenatal care during and after the storm.

Stock Up On Baby Nutritional Needs

For the baby, nutritional and comfort needs must be considered when creating a hurricane kit for the home or the car. Babies 6 months and younger need to have a supply of breast milk or formula. For babies who drink formula, the family needs to have a supply of safe drinking water and a method to sanitize bottles (or use disposable bottles). Pack at least three full days’ and nights’ worth of bottles, water and formula.

Consider packing comfort items for your child such as favorite blankets, pajamas or toys. Having the child’s comfort items and nutritional needs already planned for can ease some of the burden of the storm.

Last but not least, don’t forget to stock up on extra baby wipes and diapers. Supplies can be slow to restock in stores after a storm.

Comforting A Child As A Storm Unfolds

Children are affected by changes in mood and environment due to disasters just as much as adults. Fear, anxiety and stress may last long after the initial impact. That’s why parents should do everything they can to minimize the effect. Experts suggest parents limit a child’s exposure to media coverage of the storm, as well as listening to and comforting your child to ease their fears, and establishing routines and norms even if away from home. If evacuated, pack your child’s favorite things such as blankets, dolls or music to comfort him/her and include games or toys to help pass the time.