Harford County residents with disabilities and other special needs should consider forming a support network of family members, friends and neighbors to assist them during an emergency.
The following checklist represents information regarding emergency preparedness for those with access and functional needs from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross:
Arrange for more than one person from your support network to check on you in an emergency.
Be prepared to provide clear, specific, and concise instructions to first responders.
Consider getting a medical alert system.
Develop a support network by making arrangements with family members, friends, and/or neighbors to assist with transportation during an evacuation.
Have a cell phone with an extra battery or access to a phone that doesn’t require electricity.
If vision or hearing impaired, plan ahead for someone to convey essential emergency information to you.
Learn what to do in case of power outages and personal injuries.
Store back-up equipment (mobility, medical-related, etc.) at your neighbor’s home, school, or at your workplace.
Teach those who may need to assist you in an emergency how to operate necessary equipment.
You don’t have to be the only one prepared. Encourage others to be
prepared and consider volunteering or working with local authorities on
disability and other special needs preparedness efforts.