Be Informed, Make a Plan, Build a Kit
It's important to have a plan before a disaster hits. People with disabilities should consider doing the following:
  • Sign up for emergency alerts on your phone.
  • Contact your local emergency management department ahead of time to arrange for your individual needs, learn about possible places to go. and places with supplies.
  • Put together an emergency supply kit with things like water, food, medication, and important documents.
  • Make sure your supply kit includes things you need whether you shelter in place or decide to evacuate from your home.
  • Have a list of emergency contacts.
  • Touch base with all of your supports (personal caregiver, mental health provider, durable medical equipment and assistive technology providers, etc.) about a plan ahead of time.
  • Contact your health insurance provider to know the process for getting an extended supply of medication if you should need it.
 
These are just some of the things to consider, but there are other important things to think about. To learn more, see our newly released video, "How to Prepare for a Disaster" that provides details about what you might need in your emergency supply kit and other critical information that people with disabilities may need during a disaster.