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Disasters can strike at any time and without warning. Emergency situations may present additional challenges for people with disabilities and those who care for them.
Preparing a disaster plan now can help to minimize some of the stress that occurs during a disaster.
Make a Plan
Planning begins with gathering information. First, familiarize yourself the types of disasters more likely to strike in your area. Different disasters call for different plans. For example, if you live in the Southwest, you probably won’t need to worry about blizzards, but they may be a factor for residents of the Midwest
Next, note the best course of action tor each type of disaster. Considerations include evacuation plans, resources needed to get you through the disaster, and alternative lodging locations. Visit the American Red Cross’s resource library to get more information on what you should consider when making a disaster plan.
Considerations for People with Disabilities or Special Needs
If you or someone for whom you care has a disability or will need additional care during a disaster, it is important to think about and plan for the following items:
To ensure you have everything in your plan covered, ask yourself simple ‘what if’ questions to make sure you are prepared.
Have a Backup Plan
Written plans are key. You shouldn’t rely on your memory as things can happen unexpectedly and quickly during an emergency situation. Many times you won’t have time to think about the actions you need to take.
Need help in preparing a plan? Think about asking friends, family or support services to help you. Need more information? Please visit the websites for the American Red Cross, FEMA, the CDC and Ready.gov.
Preparing a disaster plan now can help to minimize some of the stress that occurs during a disaster.
Make a Plan
Planning begins with gathering information. First, familiarize yourself the types of disasters more likely to strike in your area. Different disasters call for different plans. For example, if you live in the Southwest, you probably won’t need to worry about blizzards, but they may be a factor for residents of the Midwest
Next, note the best course of action tor each type of disaster. Considerations include evacuation plans, resources needed to get you through the disaster, and alternative lodging locations. Visit the American Red Cross’s resource library to get more information on what you should consider when making a disaster plan.
Considerations for People with Disabilities or Special Needs
If you or someone for whom you care has a disability or will need additional care during a disaster, it is important to think about and plan for the following items:
- Have back up batteries or backup power for necessary medical devices.
- Have manual alternatives for necessary equipment such as wheelchairs or crutches instead of a scooter or electric wheelchair.
- Determine how to keep medications at appropriate temperatures if the power goes out.
- Keep a stockpile of necessary supplies(e.g., diapers, catheters, and feeding tubes).
- Identify medical facilities that are available if you have to evacuate.
- If needed, store another backup emergency kit at a different location, such as a workplace or school.
- Keep laminated operation instructions attached to or close to any necessary equipment
- Put together a list of important people and phone numbers.
To ensure you have everything in your plan covered, ask yourself simple ‘what if’ questions to make sure you are prepared.
Have a Backup Plan
Written plans are key. You shouldn’t rely on your memory as things can happen unexpectedly and quickly during an emergency situation. Many times you won’t have time to think about the actions you need to take.
Need help in preparing a plan? Think about asking friends, family or support services to help you. Need more information? Please visit the websites for the American Red Cross, FEMA, the CDC and Ready.gov.
