Are You Prepared for a Disaster?

Helpful information on being prepared for a disaster: https://www.ready.gov/disability

Information about FEMA: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/

Here are some tips for people with disabilities to prepare for disasters: 

• Make a plan

  Create a network of people who can help you in an emergency, and keep their contact information in a safe place. You can also consider giving a trusted person a key to your home. 

• Prepare for evacuation

  Make sure your home's exits are wheelchair accessible, and practice emergency evacuation drills with your family and personal care attendant. Also, plan for accessible transportation in case you need to evacuate or get around during or after a disaster. 

• Prepare an emergency kit

  Include items to meet your individual needs, such as extra batteries for your wheelchair, medications, and a medical alert system. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can include a weather radio with text display, extra hearing aid batteries, and a TTY. If you are blind or have low vision, you can include Braille labels or large print on your emergency supplies. 

• Register with your local emergency management office

  Many cities and counties have voluntary registries for people with disabilities. 

• Know your capabilities

  Consider what you will be able to do for yourself and what assistance you may need. 

• Prepare for different hazards

  Think about how to prepare for different hazards that could impact your community, and what your alternative shelter will be.