What if your child knew exactly what to do when something unexpected happened?
Most children learn what to do during a fire drill. But what about an earthquake? A flood? A tsunami? A severe storm? A wildfire? What if the power suddenly goes out, someone gets hurt, or something simply doesn't feel right?
60 Seconds to Safe was written to answer those questions.
This is not a book designed to frighten children. It is designed to replace the vague worry of "What would I do?" with something much more useful:
"I know what to do next."
In a clear, honest, kid-friendly voice, children learn how emergencies happen, how to recognize warning signs, what actions can keep them safer, and when they need to get an adult or other help.
Along the way, they will discover:
• How to recognize warning signs - from unusual changes in the environment to emergency alerts and other clues that something may be wrong.
• What to do during different emergencies - including earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, cyclones and hurricanes, wildfires, landslides, extreme heat, winter storms, tornadoes, power outages, and dust storms.
• How to prepare before anything happens - by making a family emergency plan, choosing meeting places, knowing how to communicate, and putting together a practical go-bag.
• How to stay calm when fear kicks in - including a simple breathing technique and the understanding that being scared and being useful can happen at the same time.
• How kids can help others safely - with basic first-aid awareness, clear communication, helping younger children and pets, and knowing when a situation needs an adult or trained responder.
At the heart of the book is a simple rule that children can remember even when their brain feels frozen:
NOTICE. ACT. TELL.
Notice what is actually happening.
Act on the safe step you already know.
Tell someone so you are not dealing with it alone.
The book also brings these lessons to life through real stories of kids and communities who noticed something, spoke up, prepared ahead of time, or helped others. These stories show that courage isn't about never being afraid. Sometimes it is simply doing the right next thing while you are still a little scared.
And preparation doesn't stop when the emergency is over. Children also learn about recovery, staying connected, looking after pets, finding and understanding the helpers, and supporting their families and communities afterward.
At the end of the book, children can put what they have learned into practice with a Ready Kid Quick Reference and a Family Emergency Plan that families can complete and practice together.
Your child doesn't need to memorize every page. They don't need special training. And they don't need to be fearless.
They just need to know a few important things before they need them.
Because when something unexpected happens, knowing what to do next can make all the difference.
60 Seconds to Safe is a practical and engaging book for children ages 8-13, created to help them feel more prepared, more confident, and more capable in an emergency.
A thoughtful gift for curious kids, a useful resource for families, and a valuable addition to classrooms and school libraries.
