 Create a Personal Support
Network
A personal support network can help you prepare for a disaster.
Members of your network can be roommates, relatives, neighbors, friends,
and co-workers. They should be people you trust and who can check to see
if you need assistance. They should know your capabilities and needs, and
be able to provide help within minutes. They can do this by helping you
identify and get the resources you need to cope effectively. Network
members can also assist you after a disaster happens. Organize a network
that includes your home, school, workplace, volunteer site, and any other
places where you spend a lot of time. Do not depend on only one person.
Include a minimum of three people in your network for each location where
you regularly spend a lot of time since people work different schedules
and are not always available.
Planning for Disaster
Decide what you will be able to do for yourself and what
assistance you may need before, during, and after a disaster. To complete
a personal assessment, make a list of your personal needs and your
resources for meeting them in a disaster environment. Learn about devices
and other technology available to assist you in receiving emergency
instructions and warnings. Prepare clear, specific and concise
instructions for others who may be providing assistance who are not
familiar with your needs.
If Disaster Strikes
>>>> If you are instructed to
take shelter immediately, do so at once
>>>> If you are instructed to evacuate
- Should you need to leave, your first option
and plan should always be to family or friends first; they can accommodate
you, your pets, and help you be most comfortable in a stressful situation.
Emergency public shelters will be available, and can provide a safe place
to stay. However, they do not provide personal health care. If you require
the care of a personal attendant and choose to go to a shelter, bring the
attendant with you. Confirm upon arrival at an emergency shelter that it
can meet your special care needs. Inform members of your support network
of your location and status.
If you or someone close to you
has a disability or a special need, you may have to take additional steps
to protect yourself and your family in an emergency.
Assisting People With
Disabilities In A Disaster
People with disabilities who are self-sufficient under normal
circumstances may have to rely on the help of others in a disaster. Be
ready to offer assistance if disaster strikes: If a disaster warning is
issued, check with neighbors or coworkers who are disabled. Offer
assistance whenever possible.
Prepare an emergency plan
Work with neighbors who are disabled to prepare an emergency
response plan. Identify how you will contact each other and what action
will be taken.
Evacuation
Be able to assist if an evacuation order is issued. Provide
physical assistance in leaving the home/office and transferring to a
vehicle. Provide transportation to a shelter. This may require a
specialized vehicle designed to carry a wheelchair or other mobility
equipment.
Self-Help Networks
Discuss with relatives, friends or co-workers who has a
disability what assistance they may need. Urge them to keep a disaster
supplies kit and suggest that you keep an extra copy of the list of
special items such as medicines or special equipment that has been
prepared. Talk with about how to inform them of an oncoming disaster and
see about getting a set of house keys so you can provide assistance
without delay.
Planning Resources for Persons with
Disabilities . . .
General emergency
planning information for persons with disabilities
FEMA guidance for
preparing for disaster
The "Ready America"
guide for persons with disabilities
Special Training in Emergency Preparedness for
Unique People (STEPUP) program
Information for Emergency
Response Partner Agencies . . .
Summary of non-discrimination
principles of the law
ADA Guide for Local Government - Making Emergency Response
Accessible
FEMA Office of Disability Integration and
Coordination
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