Readiness for the whole family: children, elderly and pets
Updated · 6 min read
Good home readiness takes account of who you are. The authorities recommend that every household can manage on its own for at least three days if supplies such as water, power or heat fail[1] - and if you have young children, elderly members or pets, there are a few extra things worth thinking about in good time.
In short: On top of the ordinary readiness, think about formula and diapers for the youngest, necessary medication for at least three days, and food and water for pets.[1]
Children and babies
If you have babies or young children, they have special needs. The authorities mention, for example, formula, diapers and care items as things you should build into your readiness.[1]
- Formula, if relevant
- Diapers and care items
- Water for everyone in the household
- Food that is easy for children to eat
Elderly and people on medication
If someone in the household depends on regular medication, it's important to keep a supply. The authorities recommend keeping necessary medication for at least three days and a first-aid kit.[1]
Write down important health information and prescriptions on paper, so they are at hand if phone and internet fail.
Pets
Pets belong in the plan too. Count on water for everyone in the household — including any pets - and keep food and water ready for your animals.[1]
- Feed for at least 3 days
- Extra water for the animals
- Any medication for pets
Iodine tablets and children
Iodine tablets are not part of ordinary readiness. They should only be taken on the Danish Health Authority's instructions and never on your own initiative.[2] Children and young people under 18, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding people, benefit most from iodine, and the tablets can benefit people under 40.[2]
Readiness for the family
See how to put together a readiness kit that fits your household.
If you want the full base list, read on here: Emergency supply list: what to keep at home
Frequently asked questions
What extra should I have for young children?
Think of special needs like formula, diapers and care items. If you have babies or young children, those should be a fixed part of your readiness.
How much medication should we keep at home?
Keep necessary medication for at least three days plus a first-aid kit. This matters especially if someone in the household depends on regular medication.
Should pets be part of the plan?
Yes. Count on water for everyone in the household - including any pets - and keep food and water ready for your animals.
Are iodine tablets something for children?
Iodine tablets should only be taken on the Danish Health Authority's instructions and never on your own initiative. Children and young people under 18, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding people, benefit most.
Sources
- [1]Styrelsen for Samfundssikkerhed (samsik.dk): Sådan forbereder du dig
- [2]Sundhedsstyrelsen: Jod og jodtabletter