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Emergency childbirth kit

Instructions such as those contained in this chapter also should be considered a part of the emergency childbirth kit.

To make the kit ready to carry, lay the plastic (if used) out flat, and lay receiving blanket out flat on top of the plastic. Place the diapers, sterile package, soap, sanitary napkins, identification tapes, pencil and instructions in the center. Pull two opposite corners of the receiving blanket and plastic together and tie. Do the same with the other opposite corners, pulling each side together well so that nothing will fall out. Then tightly knot the loose ends together in the same way, leaving an opening so that the kit can be slipped over the arm for carrying the kit while leaving the hands free.

Such an emergency delivery kit will weigh about 1 1/2 pounds. The contents suggested are basic essentials only, for extreme emergency. Much more could be added, but the extra weight might mean leaving behind some other items needed for survival. Additional supplies could be stored in your home shelter to be ready in the event the birth takes place there. In the case there is no need for an emergency delivery, either in the home, shelter or in some evacuation situation, the supplies in the kit can be used in home care of the baby.

IDENTIFICATION TAPES

In emergency situations, identification will be particularly important, especially if the birth should take place in a group shelter rather than a family shelter, or in an evacuation situation.

Two wide strips of adhesive tape will be needed—one long enough to go around the mother's wrist, and the other long enough to go around the baby's ankle. Information should be written on these strips as shown below.

Identification tape—for mother

[Illustration: For mother—Write parents' names, blood types, and mother's Rh factor, street address, and whether it is a first or later child.]

Identification tape—for baby

[Illustration: For baby—Write date and hour of birth and parents' names and address.]