Action Checklist – Items To Do Before a Disaster
10
Considerations for people with disabilities
Those with disabilities or other special needs often have unique
needs that require more detailed planning in the event of a
disaster. Consider the following actions as you prepare:
• Learn what to do in case of power outages and personal
injuries. Know how to connect and start a back-up power
supply for essential medical equipment.
• Consider getting a medical alert system that will allow you
to call for help if you are immobilized in an emergency.
Most alert systems require a working phone line, so have a
back-up plan, such as a cell phone or pager, if the regular
landlines are disrupted.
• If you use an electric wheelchair or scooter, have a manual
wheelchair for backup.
• Teach those who may need to assist you in an emergency
how to operate necessary equipment. Also, label equipment
and attach laminated instructions for equipment use.
• Store back-up equipment (mobility, medical, etc.) at your
neighbor’s home, school, or your workplace.
• Arrange for more than one person from your personal support
network to check on you in an emergency, so there is at least
one back-up if the primary person you rely on cannot.
• If you are vision impaired, deaf or hard of hearing, plan ahead
for someone to convey essential emergency information to
you if you are unable to use the TV or radio.
• If you use a personal care attendant obtained from an
agency, check to see if the agency has special provisions
for emergencies (e.g., providing services at another location
should an evacuation be ordered).
• If you live in an apartment, ask the management to identify
and mark accessible exits and access to all areas designated
for emergency shelter or safe rooms. Ask about plans for
alerting and evacuating those with sensory disabilities.
• Have a cell phone with an extra battery. If you are unable
to get out of a building, you can let someone know where
you are and guide them to you. Keep the numbers you may
need to call with you if the 9-1-1 emergency number is
overloaded.