For most of us, pregnancy is a unique experience. It can be a happy and joyful time. It can also be exhausting, stressful and worrying. In any case, being pregnant in the midst of a disaster can be extra challenging and the expectant parents should take special measures to be prepared.

Everyone, but especially expecting parents and parents of infants, needs to be informed of the most common disasters and risks on their areas and sign up for emergency alerts.   In Santa Clara County, sign up for AlertSCC.

Emergency plans should include the name and contact information of medical providers and information on prescriptions, if any. Family kits should include pregnancy supplies and supplies for a newborn. This chart shows 1-week’s recommended emergency supplies for breast-fed and formula-fed infants. La Leche League provides further information in several languages here.

In addition, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) provide helpful recommendations for expectant and new parents that include steps to keep you safe and healthy in the event of a disaster.  Taking these steps to prepare now will give you peace of mind and help you cope during a challenging time.

PREGNANCY AND INFANTS

• Emergency Preparedness for Pregnant Women and Infants
• Caring for Your Family in a Disaster
• Information for Pregnant Women and Parents of Young Infants
• Infant Feeding in Emergencies
• Emergency Supplies for Infants