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I am in a wheelchair, and when I was in highschool and university (my highschool had 2 floors) I wwas told to hold a sign with the number of persons that could not safely do stairs in a BIG number for the fire fighters to see, as well a staff member would have to stay with me during the drill
Pouch slings. One baby on each hip in a sling and you've still got your hands free for helping the other 2. If they're a bit older, have them hold on to a jumprope to keep them together. It'd probably be hard on your back to do the sling thing for long, but it'd work for getting out of the building.
If you are in an apartment building chances are you are not the only one home all day long. In the event of an emergency go out and the hall and scream I need help with kids and pray that someone comes and offers to help. If you put them all in a stroller and do the same someone may help you carry them down the stairs. I would contact your fire department and ask their advice - which will be good to have on hand to show parents. For sure find out what level their ladders can reach. If your level then put them in the stroller and go out on the balcony and wait for help - but in the grand scheme of things unless smoke enters your apartment keep the door shut and stay by the balcony. You might consider making a sign to hang on the outside of your day when the alarm goes off that says kids inside help needed. You might also want to talk with your landlord and find out the possibility of moving to a lower floor if a place comes available as the safety of the kids will reflect badly on them too if anything happens.
Hi there
It has been along time and I don't know what they are called ( I will look some and see if I can find it). There is and evacuation vest you can wear that can hold 4 children. Some centers that are in old Victorian houses have them. If I find the name I will post it. Hope this helps.
It is called an EVAC 5. You can carry 5 infant/ toddlers in it. Daycares in Quebec must have them. I am not sure what they cost but if it is a concern it could offer peace of mind.
3xbluemom, I will see where I can find those pouch slings. Im actually quite strong so i dont mind if i have to carry 4 of them. Beside, its only until after i get out of the building. Thank you!
Playfelt, our landlord only owns this apartment. And to be honest, I feel secure if I live on the top floor.
ECE53, I will also look into that too see which one I can use comfortably.
I will actually, do all the things you all have suggested. You can never be too carefull?
Thank you all for your posts and suggestions. You all have been very! helpful.
Have a lovely weekend.
Hotslings are one of the most popular brands of pouch slings. I think you may be able to get them at Babies R Us now - pretty sure there's one brand at least you can get there. You can also get them at Once Upon a Child and higher end baby stores.
I have no experience with escape plans from an apartment building. We have a plan here at my daycare and we actually practice it.
But I think that the fact that you are even considering this is a really GOOD sign that you are a great provider.
Do you have any able bodies neighbors who are willing to help that are on the same floor? Retired able body is a good so is the work from home type. I would maybe ask for volunteers and see what happens. Then get people committed to a schedule and ask for them to let you know if they are going out etc…
The once you have them on your list get them to practice a few drills with you. A retired neighbour maybe a great asset. This way you can have the kids make crafts and cookies for them to let them know you really appreciate there assistance. It's time to adopt a daycare grandparent!
This thing is really cool! http://www.evacu-5.qc.ca/evac3_en.htm