Individuals with Disabilities

Make a Plan

Be prepared and have a Disaster Supply Kit
Sign up for CodeRED
Sign up for the Disaster Medical Support Registry
Be ready to explain to first responders your need to evacuate and what your special needs are.
Plan ahead for accessible transportation for evacuation or getting to a medical clinic.
Have a support network of family, friends, or neighbors. Make sure they know where you keep your emergency supplies.
If you are dependent on dialysis or other life-sustaining treatment, know the location and availability of more than one facility. Talk to your provider about a plan to continue your treatment in the event of a disaster.
If you use medical equipment that requires electricity, talk to your provider about how to prepare for a power outage. Consider having a generator. Ensure you know the brand and model number of your equipment in case you need to replace it.
Wear your medical alert tags or bracelets if you have one.
Plan for children with disabilities and people who may have difficulties in an unfamiliar or chaotic environment.

Keep additional items ready for disasters

At least a week-long supply of prescriptions with a list of all your medications, dosages, and allergies
Extra glasses, hearing aid batteries, wheelchair batteries, oxygen
The model and serial number of medical devices
Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
Contact information for doctors and relatives who should be notified if you’re hurt
Supplies for your service animal (if applicable)

Tips for the Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Tips for the blind or those with Low Vision

Tips for Speech Disabilities

If you use a communications device, plan how you will evacuate with it or how to replace the equipment if it is lost of destroyed. Know the model information.
Plan how to communicate with others if your equipment is not working.

Tips for those with Mobility Disabilities

If you use a power wheelchair, have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup. Have an extra battery for your power wheelchair.
Show others how to operate your wheelchair.
Have a portable air pump and patch kit if your tires are not puncture-proof.
Have an extra cane or walker if you use one.
Have an extra seat cushion, if you use one.

Tips for Individuals with Sensory Disabilities

Have a handheld electronic device (with charger) with movies and games in your supply kit.
Have a small pop-up tent or sheets and twine to decrease visual stimulation in a busy area.
Have headphones in your supply kit to decrease auditory distractions.
Bring comfort snacks if you have to evacuate.