During a disaster or emergency, people with disabilities often have more things to think about to plan for their needs. They may need to find a shelter that is accessible or bring batteries or chargers for communication devices and assistive technology. It may be harder for them to evacuate. Planning ahead saves lives.
If you have a disability or care for someone who does, you can take steps to prepare for emergencies.
If you are a government organization or work in emergency management, you need to plan for how your agency will support people with disabilities.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) webpage on Emergency Preparedness and Disability Inclusion now includes resources to promote the importance of emergency preparedness for people with disabilities. It includes videos, audio recordings, easy-read summaries, and infographics. For more information, see the CDC webpage on Emergency Preparedness and Disability Inclusion.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a new factsheet, FEMA Assistance for Survivors with Disabilities. The factsheet covers: The disability-related items that FEMA may help with, When FEMA may provide financial assistance to help with disability-related items, and How FEMA can help with additional repairs and improvements for homeowners or a household member with...
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) wants to identify, deal with, and promote environmental justice that may result from DHS programs, policies, and activities. The government should treat everyone fairly when they make decisions that could affect people's health and environment. This makes sure everyone is safe from unfair health and environmental problems. It also...
