Seniors & Disabled

Plan | Kit | Response


Plan:

• Tell your neighbors if you cannot move well or quickly in an emergency and make arrangements for someone to check on you. Develop a personal support network of people who will check on you following a disaster.
• Your personal attendant or home health agency worker may have problems related to the disaster and may not be able to help you. Talk with your personal attendant about their agency’s plan for continued client services in an emergency.
• Try to always maintain a 3-day supply of your prescription medication. If you use oxygen, keep an emergency supply for 3-days or more.
• For all medical equipment requiring electrical power, such as breathing equipment and infusion pumps, check with your medical supply company about a backup power source. This could include a battery pack or generator.

Back to Top

Kit:

• Include necessary medications, basic toiletries, any special sanitary aids, and important phone numbers as part of your emergency go-bag.
• Keep extra mobility aids on hand. In an emergency you may be able to substitute a car battery for a wheelchair battery. Otherwise, have a manual wheelchair, canes, crutches and walkers as a backup for use in an emergency.
• Keep a whistle nearby in case you need to signal for help.

Back to Top

Response:

• If you are in a wheelchair during an earthquake, stay in it and go into a doorway that doesn't have a door. Lock your wheelchair brakes. Cover your head and neck with your hands.
• If you are in a bed or out of a wheelchair, stay put and cover your head.

Back to Top