The Montserrat Volcano Observatory recently hosted an interactive Emergency Bag Relay with a group of Brownies, combining fun, teamwork, and important preparedness lessons for young participants.

The activity challenged the girls to work in small teams to pack emergency bags by selecting items they believed would be useful during an emergency situation. One by one, participants raced to choose items without revealing their selections to teammates, encouraging quick thinking and individual decision-making.

After the relay, each group returned to the larger session where they unpacked their bags and shared their decisions with everyone. Together, the Brownies discussed which items should remain in the emergency bag, which items could be left behind, and why certain supplies are important during emergencies.

The activity also encouraged participants to think about the realities of living on an island with an active volcano and other natural hazards, including volcanic ashfall, earthquakes, hurricanes, and power outages. Through guided discussion, the girls explored how preparedness can help families respond more effectively during emergencies.

In addition to learning about essential emergency supplies such as flashlights, water, first aid kits, radios, and non-perishable food items, participants also identified less useful items that may not help in a real emergency scenario.

To continue the learning beyond the session, each Brownie received an emergency bag checklist to take home and share with their families. The checklist encourages households to begin preparing or reviewing their own emergency supplies together.

The initiative forms part of MVO’s ongoing public education and outreach efforts aimed at promoting hazard awareness and preparedness across Montserrat, particularly among young people.

The Montserrat Volcano Observatory remains committed to supporting community resilience through engaging, practical, and age-appropriate educational activities.