Red Cross prepares students for disasters through Pillowcase Project

The Southeast Missouri Chapter of the American Red Cross is launching The Pillowcase Project, a pilot in-school and after-school program to teach third-graders and their families how to prepare for disasters.

The Pillowcase Project curriculum follows three steps: learn, practice and share. Students will learn how to prepare for emergencies, enhance coping skills, practice what they have learned and share their knowledge, according to a new release from the Red Cross. The program emphasizes the importance of developing an emergency communications plan, fire evacuation plan and emergency contact cards. 

The program also teaches students how to create emergency supply kits by packing essential items in a pillowcase for easy transport during an emergency, the release said. Students can decorate and personalize their pillowcases.

The Southeast Missouri Chapter is one of 19 Red Cross chapters that will lead the program, which launches nationwide in January.

"We are thrilled to bring The Pillowcase Project to Cape County schools, Girl Scouts and after-school programs," said Beth Seabaugh, community resilience coordinator and Pillowcase Project manager. "The program gives children the opportunity to learn about the science behind various hazards and the importance of preparedness in a fun and interactive way. The hands-on activities will also help to build confidence so that children are prepared to take action during an emergency."   

Presentations are scheduled through October at Oak Ridge Elementary School, Cape Girardeau Boys & Girls Club and Girl Scout units in Cape Girardeau and Jackson, Seabaugh said.

Created in New Orleans, The Pillowcase Project was inspired by a story of local university students carrying their belongings in pillowcases during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the release said. Through the program, the Red Cross aims to incorporate preparedness education into elementary school and after-school curriculums nationwide.

The program begins with basic emergency preparedness skills and tips, then youngsters learn more about fire safety and segue into local hazards, such as tornadoes, Seabaugh said. Items for the pillowcases would include a radio, first aid kit, toothbrush, toothpaste and soap. Because it's geared toward children, they may include a special item, such as a toy, she said.

However, if there is a fire, "we do not take these things with us," Seabaugh said.

"Being ready for a disaster isn't hard, and it isn't just about a 'someday' event," Russ Paulsen, who leads community preparedness for the Red Cross nationwide, said in the release. "The Pillowcase Project shows how you can take an everyday object, have it do double duty in an emergency, and build confidence and coping skills that help children even before a disaster."  

For more information about the Pillowcase Project and how schools or after-school programs can participate, call Seabaugh at 335-9471, extension 1306.

rcampbell@semissourian.com

388-3639

Pertinent address:

2430 Myra Drive, Cape Girardeau, Mo.