The LA fires have reminded us all how critical it is to stay prepared and maintain clear communication during emergencies. Emergency situations can be overwhelming, but with preparation and teamwork, families and nannies can help ensure not only that everyone is on the same page but that everyone—especially the children—are safe and sound.
Set a Clear Emergency Plan
Preparation is everything. Take some time to sit down with your nanny and map out a plan that covers all the essentials:
- Emergency Contacts: Share a comprehensive list of contacts, including yours, backup trusted contacts, trusted neighbors, and local emergency services. Make sure your nanny knows who to call in various situations.
- Evacuation Protocols: Identify potential evacuation routes, meetup locations, and steps to secure the house if necessary. Walk through these plans together to ensure everyone is on the same page.
- Emergency Kit: Show your nanny where to find your emergency supplies—first-aid kits, medications, extra clothes, food, and water. Double-check that the kit is up-to-date and ready to go at the drop of a hat.
Review Schedules and Responsibilities
Emergencies have a way of upending daily routines. Work collaboratively to adapt schedules and clarify responsibilities to keep things running as smoothly as possible.
Stay flexible and open to adjustments. Talk about potential shifts in duties, like helping with school closures or staying overnight if conditions call for it. Emphasize the importance of keeping the children calm, entertained, and safe above all else. Additionally, discuss any extra tasks that might come up, such as preparing meals or packing essentials for evacuation.
Key Tips for Communicating with Your Nanny During Emergencies
- Reassure and Support: Let your nanny know they’re a crucial part of your team. Acknowledge their efforts and address any concerns they may have.
- Give Clear Instructions: Be direct and specific about what needs to be done. For example, “Pick the kids up from school at 2 PM and meet me at the designated evacuation point.”
- Stay in Touch: Check in frequently to ensure plans are understood and adjust as needed. Avoid assuming everyone knows what’s happening.
- Provide Updates: Share any new information, like evacuation orders or road closures, as soon as you have it.
Emotional Support and Well-Being
Emergencies are stressful for everyone, including nannies. A little empathy goes a long way in fostering trust and teamwork.
Take a moment to ask your nanny how they’re doing. Show that you care about their well-being, too. Encourage open communication about concerns or fears, and make sure your nanny has what they need, whether it’s a meal, bottled water, or a comfortable place to stay if overnight care becomes necessary.
Post-Emergency Follow-Up
Evaluate the Plan: Reflect on what worked well and identify areas for improvement. Adjust the plan as needed.
Express Gratitude: A heartfelt “thank you” can go a long way. Acknowledge your nanny’s efforts and dedication during a challenging time.
Ease Back to Normal: Work together to gradually return to normal routines, keeping an open line of communication throughout.
Emergencies can be daunting, but with preparation, flexibility, and empathetic communication, your family and your nanny can form a strong, supportive team. Together, you can navigate even the toughest situations while keeping your children safe, secure, and calm.
Stay safe, and remember: you’re in this together.