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.
People in the communities affected by natural disasters, including the fire in Maui, are beginning the hard task of recovery. This includes people with disabilities, who may need to find accessible temporary housing, replace assistive devices or medical equipment, and eventually rebuild or find new homes. Check out NARIC's list of disaster information and services
The National Council on Disability has a new report on the effects of natural disasters and extreme weather events on people with disabilities. The report found that people with disabilities are more affected by extreme weather events and environmental dangers in ways that are often not looked at by state, local, tribal, and territorial governments....
