How to Talk to Kids about Emergencies

Emergencies can be overwhelming — not just for adults, but for children too. Talking to kids about natural disasters, accidents, or evacuations might feel daunting, but it’s one of the most powerful things you can do to help them feel safe, calm, and prepared. This guide helps Australian parents, carers, and educators approach the topic with clarity, sensitivity, and confidence.

Why It Matters

Children process danger and uncertainty differently. Without context, sirens, smoke, or flashing lights can be terrifying. Talking openly (but age-appropriately) empowers them with knowledge — and reduces fear. According to the Australian Psychological Society, children who are informed and included in emergency planning show greater emotional resilience during real-life events.

View Emergency coping tips from the APS

Emergency coping tips from the APS

• Start with Simple Truths

• Keep the conversation age-appropriate:

• Ages 3–6: Use storybooks and roleplay (e.g., "What would we do if the smoke alarm goes off?")

• Ages 7–12: Show simple maps, explain what floods or bushfires are

• Teens: Involve them in emergency kit packing, safety planning, and news discussions

• Use calm, factual language. Let them ask questions, and don’t dismiss their worries — no matter how small.

• Try using illustrated books like "Jack’s Big Move" or "Birdie and the Fire" from the Natural

Hazards Children’s Book Series

Create a Family Emergency Plan — Together

Turn your emergency prep into a team effort:

• Draw a simple house map and mark exits

• Create a meet-up point outside the home

• Pack the emergency kit as a family

• Assign age-appropriate jobs (e.g., "You grab Luna the dog, I’ll grab the radio")

This gives children a sense of control and reduces panic when the unexpected happens.

Download a free printable Family Emergency Plan via Australian Red Cross

Use Tools Made for Kids

There are fantastic Australian resources built specifically to teach children about emergencies:

• Red Cross REDiPlan & Emergency App

• Get Ready Queensland – Kids Hub

• ABC Kids Emergency Resources

• Apps and games are also a great way to make the topic feel approachable, fun, and non-threatening.

• Consider showing kids Triple Zero Kids' Challenge, a national safety game teaching

when and how to call for help

Practice Calm Responses & Reassurance

• It’s not just what you say — it’s how you say it. Kids take emotional cues from adults. So if you speak calmly about evacuation or safety, they’ll mirror that tone.

• Roleplay is powerful: - Pretend to respond to a smoke alarm - Practice what to say to Triple Zero - Walk through where to go if a flood or fire is near

• Remind children: emergencies are rare, but we practice so we stay safe and brave.

• Teach your child how to call 000

After an Emergency: Emotional Support

Children might still experience anxiety after the event is over. Watch for:

• Changes in sleep or appetite

• Repeating questions about safety - Clinginess or withdrawal

  
  

Reassure them that they’re safe now and allow them to express their feelings. Support services include:

• Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800)

• Parentline Australia

• Your local GP or school counsellor

Final Thoughts

Talking to kids about emergencies doesn't have to be scary. In fact, it's one of the most loving things you can do — giving them the tools to feel secure, responsible, and resilient.

Start small. Talk often.

And always remind them: no matter what happens, we’re in this together.