| Emergency Plan |
Preparing makes sense for people with special medical needs. Learn how to prepare for emergencies: http://1.usa.gov/1KYsJ3f #EventHashtag
Do you know someone who may have trouble communicating during a disaster? Be a part of his/her emergency plan #EventHastag
Own a medical alert tag or bracelet? Wear it. Helps explain your disability & needs to others who can help you in a disaster #EventHashtag
Keep written descriptions of your disability and support needs in case you are unable to describe situation in an emergency #EventHashtag
Now is a great time to update your emergency plan and share it with your loved ones #EventHashtag
Keep a written copy of your emergency plan with you at all times #EventHashtag
Have copies of your medical records with you at all times. You can keep track of them electronically http://bit.ly/1PhjJFp&EventHashtag
Practice your emergency plan. Doing so will help you remember what to do in an actual emergency #EventHashtag
If you have a home healthcare provider, make sure he/she is aware of your emergency plans as well #EventHashtag
How does your community plan for special needs in disasters? Contact your local emergency management agency to find out #EventHashtag
Contact your local health department to ask about shelters that serve people with special needs #EventHashtag
Disasters are difficult to cope with. Learn how to recognize and respond to signs of stress http://1.usa.gov/ShAMxO&EventHashtag
Techniques like deep breathing and muscle relaxation can help you stay calm in a disaster http://1.usa.gov/1cTJLv0&EventHashtag
It may be helpful to pack books, games, and stuffed animals for comfort during a disaster #EventHashtag
Need to talk to someone? SAMHSA has a free, confidential helpline for those in need after a disaster http://1.usa.gov/1bBhDjp&EventHashtag
Be patient, be understanding, and be supportive when communicating with persons who have special needs #EventHashtag
Autism Spectrum Disorder:
Learn more about disaster preparedness tips for families affected by autism: http://bit.ly/1U4waZl&EventHashtag
(1of2) Do you or someone you love have Autism Spectrum Disorder? Consider getting a window decal for your home or car.
(2of2) Place the decal on your home/car window to notify first responders in the event of an emergency http://bit.ly/1YicH5S&EventHashtag
(1of2) First responders: people w/ Autism Spectrum Disorder may be over- or under- reactive to sights & sounds in an emergency #EventHashtag
(2of2) Here are some helpful tips for responding to and helping people with Autism Spectrum Disorder http://bit.ly/1QWw6DF&EventHashtag
(1of2) When communicating w/ people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, speak slowly, use simple language & repeat simple questions #EventHashtag
(2of2) Allow time for responses, give lots of praise & don’t physically block self-stimulating behavior http://bit.ly/1Rkg1Ir#EventHashtag
(1of2) People w/ Autism Spectrum Disorder are very vulnerable in disasters. They may copy the feelings/behaviors of others #EventHashtag
(2of2) Be aware of your tone & body language. Stay calm to avoid creating stress for these individuals http://bit.ly/1U4waZl #EventHashtag
Create an ID card to let others know that you or a loved one has Autism Spectrum Disorder http://bit.ly/1XtkwWb&EventHashtag
Have Autism Spectrum Disorder? Use visual tools to help you communicate clearly w/ first responders http://bit.ly/1KfRtDt&EventHashtag
(1 of 2) A 5 point scale can help people w/ Autism Spectrum Disorder express and control their emotions http://bit.ly/1k87X4H&EventHashtag
(2 of 2) The 5-point scale is also available as an app. Download it here: http://apple.co/1OG4chS&EventHashtag
Individuals w/ Autism Spectrum Disorder sometimes wander. Tracking devices can help you locate them 24/7 http://bit.ly/1HIZSdx&EventHashtag
Limited English Proficiency:
For translations of emergency preparedness tips, visit http://1.usa.gov/1HDqP0t&EventHashtag
(1 of 2) A language board can help you communicate with first responders. Use pictures, key phrases to identify your needs #EventHashtag
(2 of 2) You can use this as a guide to create your own language board http://bit.ly/1Plw4dg&EventHashtag
The FEMA app can provide you with emergency information in Spanish. Download the app here: http://1.usa.gov/1qks4ef&EventHashtag
For individuals with hearing impairments:
Are you hearing impaired? Check out this resource to learn how you can prepare for a disaster
http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF&EventHashtag
(1of2) Is your hearing impaired? Write down where you got hearing aids & exact type of batteries http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF&EventHashtag
(2of2) Keep batteries, spare charger for hearing aids/cochlear implant/assistive listening device in your emergency kit #EventHashtag
Make a communication card to inform others of your condition and what they can do to help http://1.usa.gov/24p5O7l&EventHashtag
Are you hearing impaired? Carry paper, pens, or pencils with you at all times to help communicate your needs #EventHashtag
Are you hearing impaired? NOAA Weather Radio provides emergency updates to ppl w/ hearing impairments http://1.usa.gov/1QhlTEI #EventHashtag
Telecommunications Relay Service helps persons w/ hearing/speech disabilities place/receive phone calls http://fcc.us/1RKV5vI&EventHashtag
Have a hearing impairment? Keep an analog-based amplified or captioned phone in your emergency kit http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF #EventHastag
Many new cell phones and smart phones have specific sounds, lights & vibrations that can be set to alert you to an emergency #EventHashtag
For individuals with vision impairments:
Are you visually impaired? Check out this resource to learn how you can prepare for a disaster
http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF&EventHashtag
(1of2) Are you visually impaired? Include a spare cane, glasses, and contact lenses in your emergency kit #EventHashtag
(2of2) Use assistive technology (white canes/CCTV/text-to-speech software)? Keep model numbers, where equipment was bought #EventHashtag
If you’re visually impaired keep a braille or deaf-blind communications device in your emergency kit http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF&EventHashtag
Are you visually impaired? Mark emergency supplies with braille/ colored tape/large print to easily find them in an emergency #EventHashtag
If you’re visually impaired keep a list of your emergency supplies on a flash drive or audio file & store in a safe place #EventHashtag
If you are visually impaired, keep braille/text communication cards in your emergency kit to help with 2-way communication #EventHashtag
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Preparing makes sense for people with special medical needs. Check out this resource to learn how to prepare for emergencies.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1KYsJ3f
Image: Person writing plan
Do you know someone who may have trouble communicating during a disaster? Offer to become a part of his or her emergency plan.
Image: Two friends sitting together
Do you own a medical alert tag or bracelet? Be sure to wear it at all times. Also, keep written descriptions of your disability and support needs in case you are unable to describe your situation. Doing these things will help explain your needs to those who can help you during an emergency.
Image: Medical bracelet
Now is a great time to update your emergency plan and share it with your loved ones. You should also keep a written copy of your emergency plan with you at all times.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1KYsJ3f
Image: Person sharing papers with a friend
If you have difficulty communicating with others, keep copies of your medical records with you at all times. Follow this link to find out how you can keep track of them electronically:
Link: http://bit.ly/1PhjJFp
Image: Link has an image
Practice your emergency plan. Doing so will help you remember what to do in an actual emergency. If you have a home healthcare provider, make sure he or she is aware of your emergency plans as well.
Image: Person with caretaker
How does your community plan for special needs during disasters? Contact the [local emergency management agency] to find out. Call XXX-XXX-XXXX or email [insert email address].
Image: Emergency management workers
Contact the [local health department] to ask for information about emergency shelters that serve people with special needs. Call XXX-XXX-XXXX or email [insert email address].
Image: Emergency shelter
Disasters are difficult to cope with. Techniques like deep breathing and muscle relaxation can help you stay calm. Learn how to recognize and respond to signs of stress.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1cTJLv0
Image: Stressed person
Need to talk to someone? SAMHSA has a free, confidential helpline for those in need after a disaster. Check out the SAMHSA website for more information.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1bBhDjp
Image: Link has an image
Be patient, be understanding, and be supportive when communicating with persons who have special needs, especially during an emergency.
Image: Person helping another person
Autism Spectrum Disorder:
Here is a great resource for families affected by autism – a list disaster preparedness tips from the Autism Society.
Link: http://bit.ly/1U4waZl
Image: Autism Society logo
Do you or someone you love have Autism Spectrum Disorder? Consider getting a window decal for your home and/or car. The decal will notify first responders in the event of an emergency.
Link: http://bit.ly/1YicH5S
Image: Decal
First responders, take note – children & adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may be either over- or under- reactive to stimulation. This is particularly relevant during emergencies, when there can be many new sights and sounds. Here are some helpful tips for responding to and helping people with ASD.
Link: http://bit.ly/1QWw6DF
Image: Responder speaking with a child
When communicating with people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, speak slowly, use simple language, and repeat simple questions. Allow time for responses and give lots of praise. Be sure not to block any self-simulating behavior.
Link: http://bit.ly/1Rkg1Ir
Image: Person speaking to another person
People with Autism Spectrum Disorder are very vulnerable in disasters. They may copy the feelings and behaviors of others, so be aware of your tone and body language. Stay calm to avoid creating stress for these individuals.
Link: http://bit.ly/1U4waZl
Image: Parent talking calmly to child
Do you or someone you love have Autism Spectrum Disorder? Create an identification card that you can use during an emergency if you or your loved one may have trouble communicating with others in times of stress.
Link: http://bit.ly/1XtkwWb
Image: Person holding card
Do you or someone you love have Autism Spectrum Disorder? Visual tools can help you communicate clearly with first responders during an emergency.
Link: http://bit.ly/1KfRtDt
Image: First responder speaking with people
A 5-point scale can help people with Autism Spectrum Disorder express and control their emotions: http://bit.ly/1k87X4H It is also available as an app: http://apple.co/1OG4chS
Image: Person with smartphone
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder sometimes wander. “Wandering-prevention technology” can help you locate them at all times.
Link: http://bit.ly/1HIZSdx
Limited English Proficiency:
For translations of emergency preparedness tips, visit this FEMA site that contains resources in several languages.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1HDqP0t
Image: Ready.gov logo
A language board can help those who do not speak English well to communicate with first responders during an emergency. Using pictures and key phrases can help communicate needs. Use this resource as a guide to create your own language board.
Link: http://bit.ly/1Plw4dg
Image: Person on computer
The FEMA app can provide you with emergency information in Spanish. Download the app here.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1qks4ef
Image: Person using smart phone
For individuals with hearing impairments:
Are you hearing impaired? Check out this resource to learn how you can prepare for a disaster.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF
Image: Person using computer
Is your hearing impaired? Write down where you purchased your hearing aids and the exact type of batteries they use. Make sure to keep batteries and a spare charger for hearing aids, cochlear implants, or assistive listening devices in your emergency kit.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF
Image: Emergency kit
Are you hearing impaired? Make a communication card to inform others of your condition and what they can do to help.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/24p5O7l
Are you hearing impaired? Carry paper, pens, or pencils with you at all times to help communicate your needs in case there is an emergency.
Image: Pens and pencils
NOAA Weather Radio provides emergency updates to people with hearing impairments. Click below for more information.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1QhlTEI
Image: NOAA logo
The Telecommunications Relay Service helps persons with hearing or speech disabilities place and receive phone calls. Go to this web site for more information.
Link: http://fcc.us/1RKV5vI
Image: Phone
Have a hearing impairment? Many new cell phones and smart phones have specific sounds, lights, & vibrations that can be set to alert you to an emergency. It’s also a good idea to keep an analog-based amplified or captioned phone in your emergency kit.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF
Image: Smart phone
For individuals with vision impairments:
Are you visually impaired? Check out this resource to learn how you can prepare for a disaster.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF
Image: Emergency kit
Are you visually impaired? Include a spare cane, glasses, and contact lenses in your emergency kit. If you use assistive technology such as a white cane, CCTV, or text-to-speech software, include model numbers and information on where you purchased the equipment.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF
Image: Glasses
If you’re visually impaired keep a braille or deaf-blind communications device or braille/text communication cards in your emergency kit to help with two-way communication.
Image: Emergency kit
Are you visually impaired? Mark emergency supplies with braille, colored tape, and large print to easily identify them in an emergency. Keep a list of your emergency supplies on a flash drive or audio file and store in a safe place.
Image: Flash drive
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<Are you prepared infographic>
<5-point scale>
<Sample ASD ID card>
<ASL preparedness video clip>
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| Evacuation |
Do you know someone who may have trouble communicating during a disaster? Offer to help him/her evacuate if need be #EventHastag
Prepare laminated instructions if you may find it difficult to describe your needs & preferences to emergency responders #EventHashtag
For more info on planning for an evacuation for those w/ communication difficulties, visit: http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF&EventHashtag
For persons with vision impairments:
Place textured labels along doors and walls to help you find emergency exits during an evacuation http://bit.ly/1l6DO68&EventHashtag
If you have low vision, hang battery-powered lights throughout your home or workspace to light emergency exit routes #EventHashtag
If you have a visual impairment, learn your evacuation route before a disaster strikes to make getting out as easy as possible #EventHashtag
For persons with service animals:
During an evacuation, ensure that a service animal isn’t separated from its master if possible http://bit.ly/1WS8BAp&EventHashtag
Remember to put your contact info on your service animal’s name tag just in case you get separated during an evacuation #EventHashtag
If you go to a public shelter, by law all service dogs are allowed inside & must be allowed to remain w/ you at all times #EventHashtag
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Do you know someone who may have trouble communicating during a disaster? Offer to help him or evacuate during an emergency if need be.
Image: Person helping another person
If you may find it difficult to communicate your needs and preferences to first responders during an emergency, prepare laminated instructions to have on hand. Check out this resource for more preparedness tips and information on planning for an evacuation.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1Uup6nF
For persons with vision impairments:
If you have a visual impairment, place textured labels along doors and walls to help you find emergency exits during an evacuation. Hang battery-powered lights throughout your home or workspace to light emergency exit routes.
Link: http://bit.ly/1l6DO68
Image: Battery powered light
If you have a visual impairment, learn your evacuation route before a disaster strikes to make getting out as easy as possible.
Image: Evacuation route sign
For persons with service animals:
During an evacuation, ensure that a service animal isn’t separated from its master if possible. Remember to put contact information on the service animal’s name tag just in case they are separated for some reason.
Link: http://bit.ly/1WS8BAp
Image: Service animal
If you go to a public shelter, by law, all service dogs are allowed inside and must be allowed to remain with you at all times.
Image: Service dog
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| Power Outage |
Have a disability? Call your power company. You may be able to register & get your power restored faster during outages #EventHashtag
Purchase extra batteries for assistive technology devices in case there is a power outage http://1.usa.gov/1d4AyxZ&EventHashtag
Plan alternative ways to charge your communication and assistive technology devices before a disaster strikes #EventHashtag
Buy chargers that can be manually operated or powered using alternative energy #EventHashtag
Do your medications need to be refrigerated? Learn how to store them if the power goes out http://1.usa.gov/1Macrkr&EventHashtag
Certain medications do not last for long periods of time without refrigeration. Throw them out if they have spoiled #EventHashtag
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Do you have a disability? Call your power company. You may be able to register with them and get your power restored faster during power outages.
Image: Downed power lines
Do you use assistive technology? Purchase extra batteries for your devices in case there is a power outage.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1d4AyxZ
Image: Batteries
Plan alternative ways to charge your communication and assistive technology devices before a disaster strikes. Buy chargers that can be manually operated or powered using alternative energy in case there is a power outage.
Image: Downed power lines
Do your medications require refrigeration? Learn how to store them if the power goes out. Certain medications do not last for long periods of time, so if you are unable to refrigerate them and they spoil, throw them away.
Link: http://1.usa.gov/1Macrkr
Image: Medication bottles
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