Staying calm in a household emergency is a skill that few possess. However, if you are an adult in a family with children, staying calm is going to be an important part of the recovery process.

Emergencies can include all kinds of scenarios, from fires to floods. Below, we’ll give you the tools you need in order to stay calm in a household emergency. 

Come Up With A Plan For Any Household Emergency Now 

Make an effort to come up with a plan for various household emergencies now, before you need it. In an emergency, you may feel like you have brain fog, and struggle to think straight. You may also make bad decisions on the spot without realizing that they are bad at the time. This is how your brain works when it responds to emergencies. Instead, come up with a plan now so that ‘future’ you simply has to follow ‘present’ you’s instructions. For example:

  • Come up with a plan for a fire – what are your various exit routes from the house? What should your kids do if they are in their rooms alone? 
  • Discuss what you are to do in a flood – e.g. turn off your power if safe to do so, grab pets, and get out of the house. 

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Know Who To Call In A Household Emergency

Knowing who to call in a household emergency is another great favor you are doing for the future version of yourself. You may end up making the wrong choice when you’re in a rush for help, so make sure you do plenty of research now and write down some numbers that will likely come in handy. If you have a plumbing emergency, having Gold Coast Plumbing Experts on standby to help you will be a big relief. 

Make Sure Your Whole Family Is On The Same Page

Ensuring your family is on the same page is key to having peace of mind and staying calm. This is why having a plan and making sure you discuss and practice it with your family beforehand is a must. Practicing it might seem extreme, but you need to make sure everybody truly understands what they are supposed to do. 

Control Your Breathing

Your breathing is one of the few things you can control in an emergency. Do your best to practice taking deeper breaths, now and in an emergency. Taking deep breaths helps the body to stay calm, whereas short, shallow breaths signal anxiety. You could even begin a meditation practice, which will be a huge help in an emergency as it helps you to stay mindful and in the moment. 

Don’t Dwell On Negatives

There are likely many outcomes of certain emergencies, but try not to dwell on the negatives. Focusing on what needs to be done in the moment means planning now. You can then confidently shoot for the best case scenario with ease. 

Staying calm in a household emergency isn’t easy, but it can be done. Be smart and start planning now!