Families & Children

Make a family emergency plan

• Go over what to do during emergencies that could happen in New Orleans.
• Plan a meeting spot in case you get separated during an emergency. 
• Pick the same person for everyone to call, text, or email.
• Read more from Ready.gov.

Know the emergency plans at your kids' school or daycare 

• Ask about emergency plans for evacuation and early closing.
• Keep the school's contact information with you.
• Read more from Ready.gov.

During a hurricane

Sheltering in place as a family

• Storms can be scary for children. Talk to your family about what’s happening, and keep games and toys on hand to entertain. 
• Remember, the power might go out. Plan games and activities that don't need electricity. 
• Read more about sheltering in place.

Evacuating as a family

• During a mandatory evacuation, estimate that it will take 4 times longer than usual to get to your destination by car.
• Bring toys and games to entertain your kids.
• Read more about evacuation. 

Infants

View the New Orleans Breast Feeding Center's infant feeding tips during disaster. 

• Bottles and formula
• Diapers and diaper rash ointment 
• Antibacterial wipes
• Extra trash bags for dirty diapers
• Read more about gathering supplies.

During a boil water advisory

• Give babies and young children a sponge bath or use boiled water to bathe.
• Read more about what to do during a boil water advisory.

During extreme heat

• Children under 4, adults over 65, and people who are overweight or ill are especially at risk during extreme heat.
• Know the signs of heat-related illnesses and what to do to stay cool.

During mosquito season

• Zika Virus is spread by mosquito bites. A pregnant woman can pass Zika virus to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause a birth defect called microcephaly. 
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites and take measures to control the population. 
• Read more about how to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne disease.