Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities
presented by David Cotcher
Everyone should be prepared to cope with an emergency for 72 hours and have a plan, support and resources in place. People with disabilities have specific needs.
Emergency preparedness: (1) know the risks; (2) make a plan; (3) get an emergency kit.
Emergencies: Fire, power outage, storms, accidents, hazardous material spills, disease.
Personal support network: Discuss needs in emergencies with people willing to help. Identify contacts, share emergency information, discuss special needs.
Emergency plans: Depending on the emergency and type of disability: Plans for evacuation; or Plan to shelter in place (72 hour emergency kit.)
Personal information kit:
My Life Capsule RQHR (in refrigerator)
Emergency Response Information Kit (ERIK) http://seniors.cimnet.ca/cim/19C45_51T5882T50T1547.dhtm
Personal Information and Checklist http://www.GetPrepared.ca
Emergency Kit to be prepared for 72 hours: water, food, battery flashlight, battery radio, prescriptions, first aid, special needs for disability.
Emergency Assistance for People with Disabilities
Mobility needs: people with wheel chairs, scooters, walkers
Non visible disabilities: communication, mental health, diabetes, heart, copd
Hearing: printed messages, note pad, alarms with flashing lights
Vision: white cane, large print, speak clearly and ask how to assist.
Seniors / special needs
High Rise Safety - residents of the building need emergency plans
Resources:
Govt Canada - Get Prepared http://www.getprepared.gc.ca
Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities http://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/pblctns/pplwthdsblts/index-eng.aspx
Emergency Response Information Kit (ERIK) http://seniors.cimnet.ca/cim/19C45_51T5882T50T1547.dhtm
City of Regina Emergency Planning http://www.regina.ca/residents/emergency-planning/
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