Preparedness Information
     
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                                                                     Disabled

For Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities
Every person has unique needs and abilities.  If you are or care for an individual with a disability or senior citizen, there may be special considerations when planning for emergencies.

• Access to services such as interpreters may be disrupted.  If you might need assistance with being understood consider preparing some basic communication cards.  
• Consider all services, devices, tools and techniques you use daily.
• Consider how you will stay informed of emergency information if you are unable to rely on your primary method. For example, if you are hard of hearing signing up for text alerts may be a good option in case of power outage.

• If you receive federal disability benefits, sign up for electronic payments. An emergency can disrupt mail service.
  
• If you receive regular medical treatment, such as dialysis, work with your provider when developing your emergency plan.  
• If you will require assistance in an emergency, create a support network of family, friends and neighbors.  Share a written copy of your plan with them and be sure to show your support network how to operate any assistance devices you may use.
• Plan to be on your own for a period of time. In certain situations, such as a hurricane or blizzard, first responders may not be able to get to you right away.  You also may not be able to get to medical facilities or stores.

For more in depth information, please visit Ready.gov.