Disaster Preparedness for Those With Disablilities

Disaster Preparedness for Those With Disabilities

September is disaster preparedness month so we thought it fitting to touch on this topic for the September Blog.   

People who have disabilities are especially vulnerable during natural disasters and emergency situations.  It is very important for the family and caregivers of these individuals to be well prepared for the unexpected.    Below, we have listed a few links with helpful information, checklists, and specific things to consider for those with functional needs.

•  Emergency Preparedness Calendar and Guide:  www.uams.edu/ar_disability
•  Planning Outline for People with Limited Speech: psu.edu
• Planning documents for people with specific disabilities:  nod.org/research_publications/emergency_preparedness_materials/
•  Emergency Evacuation Preparedness downloadable document:  www.cdihp.org/evacuation/evacprep.html

·         Here is a Basic emergency supply list

•   Prescription medications and glasses

•  Pet food and extra water for your pet
•  Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container 
•  Cash or traveler’s checks and change
•  Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov
•  Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate
• Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
• Fire Extinguisher
•  Matches in a waterproof container
•  Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels

This list is pretty general,however, you can follow the links above to find more specific lists for those with disabilities.
Stay safe by being prepared!