When we send our children to school each day, we entrust them to the teachers and administrators who care for them. Many schools now require that each student provide an emergency kit that can be stored at the school with the child's name on it, to provide essential items in case of an emergency that leaves students stranded at the school. Food, water, bandages, an emergency blanket, and a flashlight are key items to be sure your child has in an emergency kit at school.

Whether it is for a few hours or for days, being stranded at school can be a frightening experience for children. Having an emergency kit with survival and comfort essentials can make the experience easier and more comfortable.

Live Ready Tip: Hygiene supplies are particularly important when groups of children are close together in an emergency, when there may not be good access to water and water treatment. Teach your children how to use the items in the kit to keep hands clean.

Live Ready Tip: Tuck a note and family photo in your child's emergency kit to provide extra reassurance and a connection to home.

Live Ready Tip: Be sure to tuck a card with emergency contact information and your meet-up plan in your child's emergency kit.