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Access and Functional

AFN/WHOLE COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS

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Disaster preparedness is important for the whole community, especially those with access and functional needs and potentially vulnerable populations, such as older adults, children and those who are non-English speaking.  A little advance planning will go a long way ff you or your family member(s) require assistance and/or devices to maintain independence, communicate, obtain transportation services or require daily medical care.

Here are some additional items of consideration for your disaster preparedness kit:

  • Copies of medical prescriptions, doctors’ orders, and the style and serial numbers of the assistive devices you use
  • At least a week’s supply of any medication or medical supplies you use regularly, or as much as you can keep on hand.
  • Medical alert tags or bracelets or written descriptions of your disability and support needs, in case you are unable to describe the situation in an emergency.
  • Medical insurance cards, Medicare/Medicaid cards, physician contact information, list of your allergies and health history.
  • A list of the local non-profit or community-based organizations that know you or assist people with access and functional needs similar to yours.
  • Extra eyeglasses; backup supplies for any visual aids you use.
  • Extra batteries for hearing aids; extra hearing aids if you have them (or if you have insurance coverage for them).
  • Battery chargers for motorized wheelchairs, or other battery-operated medical/assistive technology devices.
  • Supplies for your service animal. You can find more tips at http://www.ready.gov/animals.
  • A laminated personal communication board, if you might need assistance with being understood or understanding others.
  • If you have allergies or chemical sensitivities, be sure to include items that you are able to use for personal hygiene and for cleanup.
  • Consider having your finances, benefits or other income direct deposit into your account so that cashing a check won’t be a challenge during a disaster.

Here are other valuable websites with more information about disaster planning for those with access and functional needs:
http://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan
http://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit
http://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs
https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/national-preparedness/plan