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Governor Steve Beshear's Communications Office
Kentucky Among Top States for Child Safety in Disasters
Save the Children commends Kentucky for new disaster preparedness legislation
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Gov. Steve Beshear announced today that Kentucky has been ranked among the top states in Save the Children’s annual National Report Card on Protecting Children During Disasters.
New legislation that takes effect Dec. 31 requires licensed child care centers to have an emergency plan in place that takes into account the unique needs of children during a disaster. The emergency preparedness must include a written plan, and take into account evacuation and relocation, reuniting families, and children with special needs.
According to Save the Children, Kentucky is among just 17 states that meet all four basic preparedness standards.
“Just as every household should be prepared to face emergencies at any given time, we have to expect the same from those who care for our children while parents are at work,” said Gov. Beshear. “The legislation I signed this year, which is being recognized by Save the Children, will help us ensure a good outcome when disasters affect child care centers.’’
Gov. Beshear declared September as Commonwealth of Kentucky Preparedness Month, urging Kentuckians to develop a disaster preparedness plan for their families. During Gov. Beshear’s term alone, Kentucky has experienced 10 presidentially declared major disasters, including tornadoes, flooding and winter storms.
“I can’t imagine how frightening it must be for parents when a natural disaster or other emergency situation occurs and they happen to be separated from their children,” said Rep. Jim Gooch of Providence, who sponsored the new legislation. “During an emergency, Kentucky families immediately worry about the safety of their loved ones. By requiring child-care centers to have a plan of action educating parents on how to secure the safety of their child during a time of emergency quickly provides a peace of mind to everyone.”
More information is available in Save the Children’s annual National Report Card on Protecting Children During Disasters.
“Our ability to meet the unique needs of kids during disasters puts a magnifying glass on our overall preparedness,” said Mark Shriver, senior vice president, Save the Children’s U.S. Programs. “For the 67 million kids in child care and schools, separated from their families on any given day, Kentucky and America must be prepared to protect our kids.”
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