Consider persons with disabilities or special needs

 

In addition to the preparedness steps recommended on this site, special consideration should be paid to people with special needs – young children, the elderly, persons with disabilities or persons with chronic illness:

 

·         Create a network of relatives, friends, or co-workers to assist you in an emergency. Prior to a disaster, talk to these people and ask them to be part of your preparedness plan. Show them how to operate any medical equipment you use, and practice your emergency procedures, including advising you of broadcast emergency information or warnings if you are hearing impaired or deaf.

·         Maintain a list of important items and store it with your Emergency Supplies Kit. Give a copy to a family member, friend or neighbour. Important items might include:

o       Special equipment and supplies – batteries for medical equipment, hearing aids, assistive devices, feeding supplies, catheters, inner tubes for wheelchair tires

o       Current prescription names, strengths and dosages, and any special storage information

o       Names and contact information for physicians and pharmacists

o       Detailed information about the specifications of your medication regime

·         In case you are incapacitated and unable to communicate, wear medical alert tags or bracelets to identify your illness or disability in an emergency.

·         Keep a whistle and flashlight near you as this will help others find you in an emergency situation. The international signal for help is three short blasts.

·         Keep your walking aids near you at all times and, if possible, an extra cane or walking aid in different rooms and at work.

·         If you have a guide dog, keep a cane handy in case he is injured or too frightened to help you during a major crisis. Keep extra food for your service dog.

·         If possible, have a seven-day supply of all medications in your Emergency Supplies Kit. Be sure to check expiry dates.

·         If a member of the household is bedridden and requires constant medical care, or has electrical life support equipment at home, discuss this NOW with their primary care physician.

·         Persons who receive home health care services should discuss emergency plans with their caregiver or home care agency. Individuals should check with their physician to establish whether prior arrangements would be necessary for evacuation to a hospital.