Natural disasters can strike anywhere at any time, often with little warning.
Earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms with lightening can be frightening events. As caregivers for children, planning and practice can improve safety and decrease fear and panic for everyone involved should an emergency take place. If you live near a geological fault line, there is a good possibility that eventually you will experience an earthquake. Severe thunderstorms with lightening are likely anywhere, most often in spring and summer. Every childcare program, both family and center-based, should have written policy and procedures for emergency situations, including natural disasters.