How to Be Prepared for Feeding Your Baby During a Disaster
Disasters can strike unexpectedly, and for parents of infants, ensuring a reliable feeding plan is crucial. Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding, preparation can make all the difference in maintaining your baby’s nutrition and comfort during a crisis. Here are 5 key steps to help you get ready.
1. Create a Feeding Kit
Put together an emergency feeding kit tailored to your needs. This could include:
Formula: Stock up on a sufficient supply of powdered or ready-to-feed formula, mark if for keeps and do not open it.
Bottles and Nipples: Ensure you have a few clean bottles and appropriate nipples.
Breastfeeding Supplies: If breastfeeding, keep a manual breast pump or if you use a portable pump keep it regularly charged. Include some milk storage bags.
Cleaning Supplies: Pack bottle brushes, soap, and sanitizing wipes. Gallon zip bags can be great options for washing bottles seperate. Snack size bags can be used to line bottles and decrease on cleaning during a crisis.
Water: Store bottled water for mixing formula or drinking. You do not need to buy water marketed for babies, but avoiding water with lots of extra minerals helps. Often "spring water" is the easiest option.
2. Know the Alternatives
Familiarize yourself with safe alternatives in case your primary feeding method becomes unfeasible:
This could be similar formulas (generics or other comparable brands) or safe voluntary breastmilk donation by networking with parents in your community.
3. Plan for Storage
If pumping or formula is in your feeding plan, consider how to store milk safely:
Freezing: Only breastmilk can be frozen. It is safe for 24 hours after the last ice crystal melts.
Coolers: Keep coolers with ice packs on hand to store milk if you must evacuate.
Ask neighbors for freezer space if some areas have electricity but you do not. (This is extremely common in my neighborhood after big storms)
4. Maintain a Feeding Rhythm
Stress can affect breastmilk supply so keeping baby close and staying flexible to frequent feedings can help maintain supply. Regardless of your baby’s age or feeding method try to maintain the same rhythm of feedings as you normally would - now is not the time for major changes (like dropping feedings) whenever they can be avoided.
5. Stay Informed About Safety Guidelines
Understanding how to ensure food and water safety is crucial:
Water Safety: Stay informed about your area and if you are under a boil water advisory.
Formula Preparation: Always follow guidelines for mixing and storing formula.
With these strategies in place, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever comes your way!
