It is every parents worst fear… but not preparing your children for how to deal with emergencies doesn’t mean they won’t happen.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the worst:

• Teach your young child to dial 911 and explain repeatedly that the number is only for use in a serious emergency.
  

• Older children will understand that they should only call 911 if their parent is unconscious or they are alone in the home.
  

• In addition to knowing how to call 911, even young children should learn their home address and phone number along with the full names of their parents.
  

• Remind your child that staying calm in an emergency is the most effective way to make clear judgments, but keep your own expectations realistic and know that children will panic.
  

• If you are leaving your child alone for an extended period of time, ask a trusted adult to check in on them occasionally.