In September, National Preparedness Month, we take time out to prepare for emergencies. Though everyone can benefit from this, it’s especially crucial for those with disabilities. If you or a loved one has special medical needs, mobility difficulties, or any impairment that makes it difficult to navigate a disaster, the time to prepare is now. In this article, we’ll share the history of National Preparedness Month and tips on emergency preparedness for people with disabilities.
The Rundown on National Preparedness Month
The National Preparedness Month campaign was launched in 2004 by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) after 9/11’s shocking events in 2001. Twenty years later, the campaign is going strong, reminding everyone that natural and manmade disasters could come up at any time and that it’s critical to get prepared.
How to Prepare for Disasters as an Individual with a Disability
When you search “National Preparedness Month” online, you’ll find that the bulk of the results are not for people with disabilities. This is a travesty, given that preparing for a disaster can be very problematic for people who are a part of this demographic. Below, we’ll give you some preparation tips specifically for you:
Understand Your Personal Needs
Think about your specific disability and make a list of the items you need to thrive. As you may well know, each disability is unique, so your list will look different from someone else’s. Here are a few things you may include:
- Medications
- Medical equipment
- Assistive devices
- Other specialized supplies
You’ll also pack a disaster preparedness kit, which we’ll cover later.
Gather a Support Network
The more support you have during a disaster, the better you’ll be able to manage. Your family, friends, and neighbors could be extremely helpful should things go wrong and you need assistance. Talk to them about the kinds of help you may need during a disaster. For the best results, we recommend casting a wide net with people who live near you and those who live further out and can provide remote support. Doing this now will ensure you’re not left alone during an emergency.
Pack a Disaster Preparedness Kit with Essentials
Having a disaster preparedness kit at your fingertips can be a tremendous help in an emergency. Here are a few things to be sure to pack in your emergency kit:
- Food (non-perishable) and water – 2 week supply
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- A 7-day supply of medications
- Multi-purpose tool
- Personal hygiene items
- And more
*For a full list of emergency kit items, read this Red Cross resource.
Consider Evacuation and Shelters
If you need to leave your home or facility during an emergency, you can go to a Red Cross Shelter or a Disaster Recovery Center. You can also dial 211 to find housing in your area. And don’t forget to call 911 if you find yourself in immediate danger. As you speak with emergency personnel, tell them about your disability and any additional support you may need during a rescue.
Get Prepared Today
National Preparedness Month is the perfect time to take proactive steps to protect yourself. With the information above, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with being truly prepared.
