Building a climate-smart generation: why preparedness must start at home

Climate change is no longer a distant threat but rather a daily reality shaping the world around us. The United Nations calls it the single biggest health threat facing humanity. In South Africa, we are experiencing its impact through more frequent storms, unpredictable droughts, and extreme weather events. While these changes pose risks to homes, communities, and infrastructure, of concern is how it affects the next generation.

There is no doubt that our children will inherit a world where climate-related risks are more prevalent. As adults, it’s our responsibility to equip them with the knowledge and resilience to navigate these risks with confidence.

To start with, instead of seeing climate change as an overwhelming, alarming external force, it can be reframed as a challenge to prepare for. By teaching children about climate risks from a young age, they can be empowered to become proactive participants in their own safety. This is not about scaring them; instead, it is about giving them the tools to respond calmly and confidently when faced with extreme weather events.

The journey toward building a climate-smart generation begins with small, practical steps. A child who learns to close windows and doors before a storm is not just performing a chore but, learning an important lesson about being prepared. Similarly, understanding the importance of unplugging electronic devices and appliances from power outlets and avoiding contact with water and plumbing systems during an electrical storm, or conserving water during a drought teaches them about resource management and environmental responsibility. These simple actions build a foundation of awareness that will serve them for a lifetime.

These lessons can be integrated into everyday life by creating and practising a simple emergency plan with your children. Discuss what to do in case of a storm or fire, where to meet, and who to call. This turns a potentially scary situation into a manageable exercise.

Teach children to respect and understand the power of nature. Explain the need to be cautious during a thunderstorm or why a river that looks calm can be dangerous after heavy rain. This promotes a healthy respect for their environment.

Involve children in putting together a basic emergency kit. Let them pack items like a torch, a small first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher. When they are old enough, consider enrolling them on a first aid course. These kinds of tangible hands-on activities will help to grow their awareness and ensure they are better prepared to face an unforeseen climate related event.

These small acts combined can turn fear and anxiety into empowerment. They teach children that they have a role to play in their own safety, encouraging a sense of responsibility and resilience that extends beyond the home and into the broader community.

Creating a culture of preparedness starts with parents, educators, and community leaders paving the way. The insurance industry also has a key part to play in ensuring its clients are prepared. Insurance is often viewed as a purely financial safety net - something you only use after a disaster has struck. However, the value of insurance, particularly given a changing climate, goes far beyond a policy document. It is about enabling families to live with confidence, knowing they have a partner committed to helping them build resilience.

At Momentum Insure, the #HeadsUp approach to safety goes beyond simply providing cover and actively engaging in preventative education and empowerment. Helping families protect themselves and their children from future risks is as important as providing financial protection for current ones. The goal is to help people live a life of confidence, and that starts with preparing the next generation for the world they will inherit.

By working together, children can be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate an uncertain future. Ultimately, the aim is to build a generation that is not just prepared for climate risks, but one that is resilient, responsible, and ready to thrive.

*Rudolf Britz is the Chief Actuary at Momentum Insure.