[Nfbf-l] Fw: preparedness guide for people with disabilities
Sherri
flmom2006 at gmail.com
Mon Dec 10 04:07:18 UTC 2012
----- Original Message -----
From: Sherri
To: Undisclosed-Recipient:;
Sent: Sunday, December 09, 2012 11:04 PM
Subject: preparedness guide for people with disabilities
Please read and share. I thought this would be of use to all of us. It's
pasted below and attached.
Sherri Brun
Preparedness Guide
for
People with Disabilities
and
Functional NeedsTABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction #
Emergency situations defined #
Your emergency plan and supply kit #
Your evacuation plan #
Help children cope with disasters #
Important phone numbers and information #
INTRODUCTION
An Emergency Plan addresses:
* What to * do
* Where to go, if necessary
* A Pet Plan
* What to have on hand
* What to take with you
Before Developing a Plan
Ask yourself what resources you rely on regularly and
determine how a disaster might affect your use of them.
* Consider buying flood insurance * even if you are not in a designated
flood zone* . Flood insurance must be in place at least 30 days prior to an
event that the insurance covers.
* Identify your disability-related or health condition need* s
by writing them down and carrying this information with you, or wearing
medical alert tags or bracelets.
* If you use medical equipment in your home that requires
electricity, talk to your health care provider about what you can do to
prepare for its use during a power outage.
* If you have a communication disability, make sure your
emergency information list notes the best way to
communicate with you.
* Be sure you have cash or * travelers checks in your * emergency supply *
kits in case you need to * buy something* .
* Advocate for yourself. Practice how to quickly explain to
people the best and safest way to help you or move you and your assistive
device(s).
In addition to the issues raised above, and the general emergency plan items
that are identified in the next part of this guide, a person with a
disability may need to do additional detailed planning. The following are
critical questions you must ask yourself, and answer honestly before and as
you compose your plan.
? Have you submitted an application for eligibility for special needs
shelter services?
? Do you keep cash in your house or have easy access to a bank or ATM?
? Do you and all members of your family or evacuation group have photo IDs
issued by a government agency?
? Do you have identification bracelets for children, in case they get
separated from the evacuation group?
? If you have a vehicle, do you keep an eye on the gas gauge, and fill the
tank when it is half full? Do you have an approved gas can that you can
take with you?
? If you must evacuate, do you have transportation? Where will you go? How
will you get there?
? While you may not normally need the services of the local transportation
provider, will you need their services during an emergency?
? Did you register to receive the transportation provider's services?
? Flood zones and mobile homes are the primary areas you should evacuate. If
you are going to leave the area, make sure you plan to leave early.
? If electricity goes out for three or more days, can you stay in your home
safely? Do you use any durable medical equipment that needs electricity to
function?
? If your equipment is battery operated, how can you get the battery
recharged?
? If you are deaf or hard of hearing, since most of the media coverage is
by radio or television, do you have a support system to let you know what is
going on?
? If you have a personal care attendant that comes to your home or place of
work, what will happen if he or she cannot get to you?
? Will you have enough medications or medical supplies to last at least two
weeks? Do you have medications that need to be refrigerated? If so, do you
have an ice chest and access to ice or other cooling material?
? Do you have food and water that you can get to, to last at least 72
hours?
? Do you have plans for your service animal? Your pet?
Advice for Everyone
Lessons Learned from Past Hurricanes and other events
* Remember that people in some areas of your state may have been asked or
ordered to evacuate before you, so even if you leave early, roads may be
congested.
* If possible, you should know where you are going and how you plan to get
there before you leave home. Let others know your destination and intended
route.
* Using alternate routes may lessen your travel time. Know what alternate
routes are useable before you leave.
* Leaving early will shorten your travel time. Leaving later may not allow
you enough time to reach safe shelter.
* You will need cash and a full tank of gas (see page * XX* ).
After a storm
* Have valid identification (see * page * XX* ). You may not be allowed back
into your home neighborhood unless you can show proof of residency.
* Stay at home and avoid sightseeing, which can impede emergency and
recovery response from officials.
* If there was flooding beware of snakes, insects and animals driven to
higher ground.
* Avoid downed or dangling utility wires.
* Enter your house with caution.
* Be cautious with fires. Do not strike matches until you are certain there
are no gas leaks.
* If a power outage occurs, turn off or disconnect all electrical appliances
and fixtures to avoid damage from sudden surges when power is restored.
* If you have a generator, DO NOT OPERATE IT INSIDE. DO NOT OPERATE IT
OUTSIDE NEAR ANY DOOR, WINDOW, OR GARAGE DOOR.
* Turn the refrigerator and freezer controls to the coldest settings. Don't
open refrigerator or freezer possible during a power outage unless
necessary* .
* Food will stay frozen for up to 48 hours if a freezer is full and tightly
packed and the door is kept closed. Food in a partly filled freezer may
keep for 24 hours.
* Fill empty freezer spaces with reusable ice containers, or fill empty
plastic containers about four-fifths full of water, cap the containers
loosely and place in empty spaces to freeze.
* If food in the freezer does defrost, use it within one or two days. Never
refreeze food that has thawed completely. How do you tell if food has gone
bad? The safe answer is, "If in doubt, throw it out!"
A well thought out and practiced plan will help you and your family to be
ready for emergencies. Be sure to include all members of your family, as
well as pets, in your emergency plan. You will want to consider the special
needs of pregnant women, infants and young children, the elderly, and people
with disabilities.
Emergency Situations Defined
Weather related:
SHORT TERM WATCHES AND WARNINGS
These warnings provide detailed information about specific threats, such as
flash floods and tornados, that often accompany hurricanes. Tune in to NOAA
Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for
information.
Hurricanes
TROPICAL DEPRESSION: An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a
defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 mph (33 knots)
or less.
TROPICAL STORM: An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined
surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39-73 mph.
HURRICANE: An intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a
well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or
higher.
HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM WATCH is issued when hurricane/tropical storm
conditions are possible in the specified area, usually within 36 hours. The
watch should trigger your disaster plan. Start protective measures,
especially those actions that require extra time such as securing a boat, or
preparing to evacuate your home to a safer place.
HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM WARNING is issued when hurricane/tropical storm
conditions are expected in the specified area, usually within 24 hours. In
the event of a warning for your area, listen to National Oceanic Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) weather radio, or your local radio and television
stations for frequent updates about the storm as well as advice from local
officials. The intensity and the path of the storm can change quickly, and
without notice.
What to do when a warning is issued
* Review your emergency plan.
* Decide where you * will go if you are requested to
* evacuate. You may * choose to * stay with friends or relatives
in a safe location, * stay in * a hotel or motel, or go to a local
* public * shelter (special needs if eligible) * .
* Remember your pets. Know if your destination (friends, hotel,
shelter) is pet-friendly. If you need to make arrangements for your pet,
contact your vet, local S * ociety for the * P * revention of
* C * ruelty to * A * nimals (SPCA) or * h *
umane * s * ociety. Be sure you have up * - * to
* - * date immunization records for your pet * .
* Gather disaster supplies, including for your pet * .
* If you have * a car, h * ave it ready. Check oil *
, fluids, * tires, * and fill your gas tank.
When the storm approaches
* Listen for weather updates. Hurricanes * can change direction
* , so remain informed.
* Check your emergency evacuation supplies.
* Board up or put storm shutters on windows.
* Clear your yard of loose objects, bicycles, lawn furniture,
* trash cans, etc. Tie down anything that can't be brought in.
* If you have a * swimming pool * , lower the water level a
foot * . Super-chlorinate the water * ; cover * the *
pump and filtration systems and intakes.
* Turn off * any * propane tanks.
If you can stay home
* Obtain and mark clean containers for storing water. You
should have a minimum of one gallon per person per day.
* Obtain a week's supply of non-perishable foods * that you
don't need to cook * . Don't * forget a non-electric * ,
manual can opener.
* Stay inside, away from windows, glass doors and * s *
kylights.
* Avoid elevators.
* Don't use * your telephone * or cell phone *
unless absolutely necessary.
* Wait for official word that the danger is over. Don't be *
fooled by the storm's calm eye.
* If you must leave home, * see page * XX *
for tips on * evacuation.
Tornados and Severe Thunderstorms
Florida has TWO tornado seasons
* Spring- * February through April, characterized by the most
powerful storms.
* S * ummer- * June until September, has the most tornados,
but usually not the most dangerous.
TORNADO WATCH: Issued when tornadoes are possible in your area.
TORNADO WARNING: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.
If a tornado warning is issued for your area and the sky becomes
threatening, move to your most safe place.
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH: Issued when a severe thunderstorm is possible in
your area.
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING: Issued when a severe thunderstorm is occurring.
What you can do before the thunderstorm
* Review your emergency plan * . * Have a NOAA weather
radio with a warning alarm tone and battery backup to receive warnings.
* Know your county and * its landmarks (major roads, rivers,
communities) to allow you to follow the storm's progress.
* Listen to radio and television for information.
If a warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches
* I * f you are in a home or * other * building,
move to * the strongest room or a designated shelter. *
Stay away from windows.
* If an underground shelter is not available, move to an *
interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a *
sturdy piece of furniture.
* Mobile homes offer little protection from tornados. If a tornado
approaches, get away from mobile homes.
* Get out of automobiles. * Do not try to outrun a tornado
in your car. * If caught outside or in a vehicle, lie flat in a
ditch or * depression.
After the storm
* Stay away from disaster areas.
* Report broken power lines or gas lines. * L * eave
your home if you smell gas fumes or other chemical smells * .
Flooding
* STORM SURGE is a dome of water pushed onshore by
* hurricane and tropical storm winds. Storm surges can reach * 25
feet high * .
* STORM TIDE is a combination of storm surge and the
* normal tide * that causes very high water levels * .
Before the flood
* Review your emergency plan. * Se * e if you are in a flood
plain. Find your flood insurance policy if you have one.
* Begin * implementing your plan if the flooding * threatens your home.
Find an evacuation destination and gather your disaster kit items.
When a flash-flood watch is issued for your area
* Refer to your emergency plan as to what you will do and where you
will go.
* Listen to * National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
* ( * NOAA * ) weather radio, and your * area * 's
radio and television stations for warnings and reports of flooding.
* Be prepared to evacuate immediately.
* If you are on a road, watch for flooding at highway dips,
* bridges and low area * s * . Don't drive through standing
water.
* Follow instructions from emergency officials.
When a flash-flood warning is issued for your area
* Move quickly to s * ave yourself and those who depend on you.
Gather up your critical disaster kit items.
* Do not attempt to cross a flooding stream on foot where *
water is above your knees. Avoid walking through deep water if you have
open cuts or sores.
* Keep children away from floodwaters near culverts and storm drains.
* Don't try to drive through water. * Rising water may sweep the
vehicle away causing potentially deadly consequences. * If your vehicle
stalls, * evacuate all passengers immediately to higher ground.
* Be cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood *
danger.
Nuclear Emergencies
In the event of a nuclear emergency, safety information will be broadcast on
your local TV and radio stations and public alert systems.
The four levels of emergency alerts are:
* Notification of an unusual event (lowest)-no radiation
* leak-no action needed.
* Alert * -Small amounts of radiation may leak-no action
* needed.
* Site-area emergency * -small amounts of radiation may *
leak but it isn't expected to travel offsite-stay alert to *
broadcast safety information * .
* General emergency * - * ( * most * serious) * -
* radiation could leak * off-site * . B * e prepared to
evacuate or shelter-in-place. * In the event of a general
emergency, don't eat food from * an outside garden unless
emergency officials approve.
If your car breaks down while evacuating, keep windows and vents closed and
stay inside.
Don't return home from an evacuation unless officials say it is safe.
Terrorism
Terrorism is the unlawful use of violence, or the threat of
violence, to scare or intimidate people or governments. Terrorists tend to
strike highly populated places, businesses and government centers. Other
targets may involve transportation, healthcare, utilities and education.
There are four types of terrorism:
* C * o * nventional * - * bombings and
hijackings
* Chemical * - poison
* Biological * - bacteria and viruses
* Radiological * - nuclear weapons or radioactive materials
When you are in public
* Be aware of your surroundings.
* Never leave personal property unattended.
* Report suspicious packages or behavior.
During a terrorist incident
* Stay calm.
* Follow instructions from emergency officials.
In a chemical or radiological incident
* Stay inside unless otherwise instructed.
* Go to a basement or below ground room for a radiological incident.
* Go to the highest room for a chemical incident, preferably without
windows.
* Turn off all air handling units.
* Close windows and doors and seal off rooms.
* In a car or truck, close windows and vents and turn off the heat or
air.
Following a terrorist incident
* Leave rescue efforts to trained personnel especially in a *
collapsed building.
* If you are trapped in debris, tap against a wall for *
rescuers to find you. Avoid yelling so * you do * not breathe in
* more dust or smoke.
* Follow emergency announcements to learn about a * ssistance.
YOUR EMERGENCY PLAN AND SUPPLY KIT
Considerations for People with Disabilities
If you have access to the Internet, there is an excellent planning tool
available at www.floridadisaster.org. Click on "Disability Disaster
Information, then, click on "Click here to start your Family Disaster Plan"
under paragraph 4.
When making your emergency plan, consider:
* Each person your plan will cover. Include your * service animals and *
pets.
* What * supplies * and equipment * you will need* . Read the categories
and lists of items to have or take with you.
* How much cash you may need if your credit or debit cards don't work* .
* Which financial* , * insurance * and other * records you will need to *
have readily available to you* .
* How you will communicate with others who need to know where you are and
how you're doing. Does everyone in your evacuation group know the
evacuation destination?
* * Select two meeting places* : One if you need to * leave home in an
emergency and another outside of your * neighborhood if you can't get back
home * after the event.
* Out of town contacts* : * Make arrangements with an out of town person to
* serve as your * central communications person. Make sure * each person in
your * evacuation group has th* e * person's name, * phone number* (s) * and
email address* , and this person has everyone's phone numbers and email
addresses* .
Maintain your plan, supplies, and equipment
* Review your plan every six months and exercise it to see if it is still
valid.
* Conduct fire and emergency evacuation drills on a regular basis with your
family or those with whom you live.
* Check food supplies every six months for expiration dates. Eat food which
will soon expire and replace eaten items in your emergency supply.
* Read the indicator on your fire extinguisher(s) and follow the
manufacturer's instructions to recharge. Test your smoke alarms monthly and
change the batteries at least once a year. Replace alarms every 10 years.
Plan Maintenance Chart
6 mo 12 mo Notes
Review plan
Exercise plan
Fire Drills
Replace food and water
Check fire extinguishers
Check smoke alarms
A Pet Plan
Plan for the care of your pets if you have to evacuate your
home. Pets, unlike service animals, will only be allowed in
designated pet-friendly shelters. Check with your county's
Emergency Management Office to see if there is a pet friendly shelter in
your area. You will need to plan where you will take your pet if you must
leave your home. Remember to take a leash, muzzle, food, water,
immunization records, any medications, and a carrier or cage.
An Emergency Supply Kit
There are some general items and six basic categories of items you should
stock for your emergency supply kit. Be sure that you or your family
members, personal care assistants or friends can carry and transport these
items if necessary.
Keep the items you would most likely need during an
evacuation in an easy-to-carry container(s) that you or people helping you
can manage. The items and quantity of items will meet your personal needs
and those who are included in the plan.
For Babies
* Formula
* Diapers/wipes
* Bottles, disposable, with disposable nipples
* Powdered formula, milk, or baby food
* Medications, medicine dropper
* Baby soap and shampoo
* Baby's physician or nurse phone number(s)
For Pets
* food bowl
* water bowl
* Medications, records of immunizations Collar/Leash/harness
* Identification tags, rabies tag
* Carrier or cage (1 per animal)
* Litter pan (for cat)
For Everyone
1) Water
* Store one gallon of water per person per day for up to 7 days. This
includes water for drinking, cooking, hygiene * .
* Include additional water for your pet.
* A person who is generally active needs to drink at least two quarts
of water each day. Hot environments and intense physical activity can double
that amount.
* Children, nursing mothers, and ill people will need to drink even
more * .
* If you purchase bottled water, keep it in the original, sealed
container. * Observe the "use by" date.
* Store water in plastic containers such as large soft drink, juice, or
milk bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as
paper milk cartons or glass bottles.
* Store water in a bathtub for washing and to flush toilets
2) Food (non-perishable, not requiring cooking, disposable eating
implements, manual can opener)
* Pet food
* Store at least a three to seven day supply of food per
person that does not require refrigeration prior to opening.
* Canned or packaged nonperishable meats or fish
* Canned vegetables
* Canned fruits, packaged dried fruits, nuts
* If you must heat food, have a can of jellied alcohol (i.e. Sterno)
and matches (in waterproof package). Only use grills or gas operated cookers
outdoors in a well * - * ventilated place.
* Can opener(s), manual
* Disposable plates, plastic utensils or special eating utensils,
paper goods (napkins, towels)
3) Medicine
* Arrange with your prescriber and pharmacist for adequate
supplies of medications. If there is a declaration of emergency in your
county, you can get a 30-day supply for the same price you've been paying -
even if you recently filled your prescription(s). Very important for control
of chronic high blood pressure, diabetes, mental health, other conditions.
* Equipment and supplies necessary for your medications, such as
alcohol wipes, syringes, test equipment; ice or other coolants for
medications that require lower temperatures.
* List of medical devices such as pacemakers, pumps, monitors,
accommodation devices with their models and serial numbers.
* Spare prescription glasses, even if they are not your latest
prescription. Spare contact lenses and cleaning solution and equipment.
* Sunglasses (prescription or not)
Non-prescription Drugs
* Aspirin or nonaspirin pain reliever
* Anti-diarrhea medication
* Antacid (for stomach upset)
* Syrup of Ipecac (use to induce vomiting if advised
* by the Poison Control Center)
* Laxative
4) First Aid Kit
Assemble a first aid kit for your home and one for each car. A first aid
kit should include the following:
* Sterile, adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
* Assorted sizes of safety pins
* Cleansing agent/soap
* Latex gloves (2 pairs)
* Sunscreen
* 2-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6)
* 4-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6)
* Triangular bandages (3)
* 2-inch sterile roller bandages (3 rolls)
* 3-inch sterile roller bandages (3 rolls)
* Scissors
* Adhesive tape
* Tweezers
* Sewing needle
* Moistened towelettes
* Antiseptic
* Rubbing alcohol
* Thermometer
* Tongue blades (2)
* Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant
* Medicine dropper
5) Clothing and bedding
* Laundry detergent (in container that can be sealed)
* One complete change of clothing and footwear per
* person
* Sturdy shoes or work boots
* Summer hat, to protect head and ears
* Rain gear
* Personal favorite pillows, sheets
* Blankets or sleeping bags
* C * old weather items including:
* Hat and gloves
* Thermal underwear
6) Other Essential and Special Items (some deliberate duplicates)
NOTE: Do not include candles. Candles cause more fires after a disaster than
anything else. Use a flashlight or lantern.
* Battery * chargers for
electrical equipment ( * Check with your vendor to know if you
can charge your battery by either connecting jumper cables to a vehicle
battery or connecting batteries to a converter that plugs into a vehicle's
cigarette lighter, or a solar * charger
system.)
* Cash or traveler's checks
* Standard telephone you plug directly into the wall
* (not a cordless phone)
* Battery or crank powered radio (extra batteries if
battery powered), with headphone or earplug
* Battery or crank powered lantern or flashlight (extra
batteries if battery powered)
* Hearing devices, and batteries (if appropriate)
* Spare keys
* Aluminum foil
* If you have a computer and have access to a scanner, scan
important documents (including home belongings inventory and pictures of
your home and its belongings) onto a thumb drive to take with you if you
have to evacuate your home.
* Waterproof container for * :
* N * otebook with the following * contact *
information:
* Family and friends
* H * ome maintenance * and personal services * workers
* A list of official emergency numbers
* Detailed instructions for shutting off utilities
* Medical information including * :
* physician's
* contact * number * s
* health insurance provider inf
* ormation
* blood type
* allergies
* medical * history and
current * conditions
* medications and doses * ,
* special handling
instructions; and dispensing pharmacy phone number(s)
* List of style and serial numbers of medical
devices such as pacemakers, pumps, accommodation devices
* , * assistive devices
* Insurance company * (s)
* , policy numbers, claims
numbers (property insurance, health insurance)
* Documents * identifying
* disabilities
* Credit card, bank, securities
* information
* If you have an animal * :
* immunization records and
veterinarian contact information
7) Additional items for people with disabilities including mobility,
accessibility, or assistive devices, spare parts and equipment, and supplies
(some intentional duplicates):
* S * pare batteries for mobility equipment * , other *
assistive * devices * , hearing aids
* I * ce chest and * ice or "keep cool" material for
* medications * . If using "dry ice" use dry cotton gloves
* Special * pads or cushions
* Recreational * /occupat * ional reading material
* Battery-operated * radio or music player and extra *
batteries, with headphone or earplug
* Urinary function supplies, Ostomy supplies, * Incontinence
* pads, personal hygiene items
* Dressing devices
* Oxygen (tanks or generator) * , with flow rate * attached
* Suction equipment
* Dialysis equipment and supplies
* Wheelchair * or scooter * (name or other ID on it)
and repair kit, * including spare parts * , * t * ire
repair kit
* Walker * , crutches, canes (name or other ID on * them
* )
* Dentures
For Persons with Visual Disabilities
* Talking * or * Braille * clock or large-print
timepiece * with extra batteries
* A * t least one extra white cane
* Mark your disaster supplies items with * f * luorescent
tape, * large print, or * Braille
* Mark your gas, water, and electric shutoff valves with *
fluorescent tape, large print, or * Braille
* E * xtra magnifiers
For Persons with Hearing Disabilities
* Consider getting a portable
* , battery-operated
* , * digital
* television set * .
* Emergency broadcasts may give information
* in American Sign Language (ASL) or open captioning
* Include p *
aper and pencils in your home
* and car * disaster supplies kit
* Keep a flashlight, whistle or other
noisemaker * with you at all times
* Keep a card in
* your disaster supplies kits and with you at
all times that indicates you are d
* eaf or have a hearing disability
* . Include any other appropriate communication
* information such as "I do (or do not) know American Sign
* Language," or, "My service animal may legally remain
* with me"
If you have a speech-related or communication disability:
* Consider buying a power converter if you use a
laptop * computer to
communicate * , which allows
* laptops 12 volts or less to be operated from the
* accessory socket on the dashboard of a vehicle
* H * ave pencil and paper
with you as a backup *
communication resource
* If you use an electronic communicator or
artificial larynx that *
allows you to communicate by voice, be sure to keep it close
* to you
* Store copies of a word or letter board and
preprinted key * phrases
you would use in case of an emergency in all of your
* disaster supplies kits, your wallet, purse, etc *
.
If you use self-administered medical treatments:
* C * arry
the * medicines * you will
need when traveling. See "Medications" page
* XX for obtaining additional quantities in an
emergency.
If you have a cognitive disability:
* Keep a copy of any instructions or information
you you will need with you and
* in the * disaster
supplies kits. Prepare this * i
* nformation in a way that is easy for you to
* understand during a disaster, i.e.
a step-by-step * sequence *
.
* Have a pencil and paper ready to keep track of
* and to help you remember * any new
* instructions or information you may receive.
If you or someone in your household uses a wheelchair,
make more than one exit from your home wheelchair
accessible in case the primary exit is blocked. Plan and
practice how to escape from your home.
Priority Reconnection Service: Florida law requires that all utility
companies offer a "priority reconnection service" for people with
disabilities who use power-dependent equipment. Contact your utility company
for more information and to get placed on their priority reconnection list.
For individuals who use telecommunications relay services, look into
different options to use as back-up including: dialing 711 (nationwide), Cap
Tel (captioned telephone), Internet-based relay (through computer, text
pager, PDA, etc.), and/or video relay services (through broadband).
People will want to help you. Be ready to give brief, clear, and specific
instructions and directions to these people, either orally or in writing.
Examples:
"Please take my-
Oxygen tank.
Wheelchair.
Gamma globulin from the freezer.
Insulin from the refrigerator (or ice chest).
Communication device from under the bed."
"Please do not try to straighten my knees. They are fused in a bent
position."
"I have had a brain injury that affects my memory. Please write down all
important instructions and information."
"I am blind/visually impaired. Please let me grasp your
arm firmly."
"I am deaf. Please write things down for me."
Let a responder or relief worker know if you cannot wait in lines for long
periods for items like water, food and other assistance. Practice how to
explain clearly and briefly why you need this assistance. You may also want
to write the explanation down ahead of time.
Evacuation
You will want to consider evacuating your home in the event of flood, fires,
or hurricanes. Local government will issue evacuation orders and alert the
public using radio, television or other warning systems.
Consider risks in your area including living on or near the coast, near the
shore or a stream that can flood, or near a nuclear power plant. How strong
is your home?
Weather related emergencies may affect your roads and utilities. It may take
a few days before they are fully restored. Will you be able to cope?
In times of emergency, generally it is best to stay at home where you will
be most comfortable, but it may be necessary to evacuate. It is important
to pay attention to local emergency staff and, if directed to, be prepared
to evacuate. If you must evacuate:
* Contact * family or
friends who are in a safe * place
and who have room for you
* I * f you have
transportation * , you may wish to
evacuate the area entirely, out of the danger zone. Be sure your destination
is included in your plan.
* Consider a public
shelter that can meet your needs.
There are two types of shelters.
* General population
* - shelter for
those in need but does not provide assistance for people with special needs.
* S * pecial
needs * - * for
people who are medically fragile, may require continuous oxygen or air
conditioning, or who can't take care of their medical oversight needs, but
who are not sufficiently ill to allow admission to a hospital or other
health care facility. * Most people with
disabilities will not be eligible to stay in a special needs shelter
* .
Each county emergency management office determines who will be eligible for
its special needs shelters. Please contact your county's emergency
management office, and complete and submit a special needs shelter
application. That office will review your application and tell you if you
are eligible, or if you should plan on going to a general population
shelter.
Again, if you decide to evacuate your home:
* Take your emergency kit with you
(see page * XX * )
* .
* Turn off water and electricity at the main valve,
breakers * or fuses.
* T * urn off propane gas
tanks that serve individual
appliances like a stove or grill. Do not turn off natural gas unless local
officials advise to do so.
* Follow the travel routes suggested and bring a
map in * case they are
unfamiliar to you.
* If you don't drive, determine alternative methods
of * transportation and
make contact with your transportation provider (family, friend, public
service * , etc. * ).
Help Children Cope with Disasters
During a disaster, your family may have to leave your home and daily
routine. Remind children that your families' emergency plan will address
most incidents.
As an adult, you'll need to cope with the disaster in a way that will help
children avoid developing a permanent sense of loss. How you react to an
emergency gives them clues on how to act. If you seem overcome with a sense
of loss, a child may feel losses more strongly. Children's fears may also
stem from their imagination and you should take these feelings seriously.
When talking with your child:
* Pr * esent a
realistic *
picture that is both honest and manageable
* Monitor media exposure
* ; y * our child should not see or hear
* too many stories about the disaster
* Teach your child what to do in an emergency
* . * In an age-appropriate way, t
* hey should learn to:
* c * all for help
* c * all a family member or trusted friend of the family
* d * ecide to take shelter or leave the home.
Learn More about Services in Your Community
Online Resources
There are many online resources that provide more information on disaster
preparedness. If you do not have computer access at home, you may visit your
local public library to do more research. These online resources include:
* Florida Emergency Management Community:
* www.floridadisaster.org
* Federal Emergency Management Agency:
* www.fema.gov
* Red Cross:
* www.redcross.org
* and * www.prepare.org
* National Organization on Disability:
* www.nod.org/emergency
* The National Center on Emergency
Planning for People with Disabilities: *
www.disabilitypreparedness.org
One of the best guides on how people with disabilities should prepare for
disasters was developed by the American Red Cross and is available for free
at the following website: http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/
beprepared/disability.pdf
The Americans with Disabilities Working Group's Clearinghouse on Disability
Information is another resource to call to answer disaster preparedness
questions. Its phone number is 1-877-ADA-4YOU or 1-877-232-4968.
Florida Centers for Independent Living (CIL) are committed to assisting
those with disabilities with planning for emergencies. If you need
assistance with preparing, call 1-866-575-6004 or 1-877-822-1993 to connect
to your local CIL.
Special Needs Shelter Registries
Alachua
(362) 264-6500
Baker
(904) 259-6111
Bay
(850) 784-4000
Bradford
(904) 966-6336
Brevard
(321) 637-6670
Broward
(954) 537-2888
or TDD line,
(954) 537-2882
Calhoun
(850) 674-8075
Charlotte
(941) 505-4620
Citrus
(352) 746-6555
Clay
(904) 284-7703
Collier
(239) 774-8444
Columbia
(386) 758-1125
DeSoto
(863) 993-4831
Dixie
(352) 498-1240
Duval
(904) 630-2472
Escambia
(850) 595-3311 or
(850) 471-6400
Flagler
(386) 437-7381 or
(386) 437-7382
Franklin
(850) 653-8977
Gadsden
(850) 875-8642
Gilchrist
(352) 463-3134
Glades
(863) 946-6020
Gulf
(850) 229-9111
Hamilton
(386) 792-6647
Hardee
(863) 773-6373
Hendry
(863) 612-4700
Hernando
(352) 754-4083
Highlands
(863) 385-1112
Hillsborough
(813) 307-8015
ext. 6006
Holmes
(850) 547-1112
Indian River
(772) 567-2154
Jackson
(850) 482-5028
Jefferson
(850) 342-0211
Lafayette
(386) 294-1950
Lake
(352) 343-9420
Lee
(239) 477-3600
Leon
(850) 488-5921
Levy
(352) 486-5213
Liberty
(850) 643-2339
Madison
(850) 973-3698
Manatee
(941) 749-3022
Marion
(352) 622-3205
Martin
(772) 287-1652
Miami-Dade
(305) 513-7700 or
311
Monroe
(305) 292-4591
Nassau
(904) 548-4980
Okaloosa
(850) 651-7560
Okeechobee
(863) 462-5776
Orange
(407) 650-4047 or
(407) 836-3111
Osceola
(407) 343-7000
Palm Beach
(561) 712-6400
Pasco
(727) 847-8959 or
TDD line,
(352) 521-5137
Pinellas
(727) 464-3800
Polk
(863) 534-5600
Putnam
(386) 329-0379
Santa Rosa
(850) 983-5360
Sarasota
(941) 951-5283 or
(941) 861-5000
Seminole
(407) 665-5102
St. Johns
(904) 824-5550
St. Lucie
(772) 461-5201 or
(772) 462-1770
Sumter
(352) 569-6000
Suwannee
(386) 364-3405
Taylor
(850) 838-3575
Union
(386) 496-4300
Volusia:
Daytona Beach area
(386) 258-4088
West Volusia area
(386) 736-5980
Southeast Volusia area
(386) 423-3395
Wakulla
(850) 926-0861
Walton
(850) 892-8066
Washington
(850) 638-6203
County Health Departments
Alachua County
224 S.E. 24th St.
Gainesville, FL 32641
(352) 334-7900
FAX (352) 955-6428
Baker County
480 W. Lowder St.
Macclenny, FL 32063
(904) 259-6291, ext. 2230
FAX (904) 259-1950
Bay County
597 W. 11th St.
Panama City, FL 32401
(850) 872-4720, ext. 1369
FAX (850) 872-7626
Bradford County
1801 N. Temple Ave.
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 964-7732
FAX (904) 964-3024
Brevard County
2575 N. Courtenay Pky
Merritt Island, FL 32953
(321) 454-7101
FAX (321) 454-7128
Broward County
780 S.W. 24th St.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33315
(954) 467-4700
FAX (954) 760-7798
Calhoun County
19611 S.R. 20 West
Blountstown, FL 32424
(850) 674-5645
FAX (850) 674-5420
Charlotte County
514 E. Grace St.
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
(941) 639-1181
FAX (941) 639-1458
Citrus County
3700 W. Sovereign Path
Lecanto, FL 34461
(352) 527-0068, ext. 261
FAX (352) 620-7565
Clay County
301 S. West St.
Green Cove Springs, FL
32043
(904) 269-6341
FAX (904) 269-6304
Collier County
3301 E. Tamiami Trail,
Bldg. H 34112
Naples, FL 34106-0429
(239) 774-8205
FAX (239) 530-5387
Columbia County
217 N.E. Franklin St.
Lake City, FL 32055
(386) 758-1068
FAX (386) 758-3900
DeSoto County
34 South Baldwin Ave.
Arcadia, FL 34266
(863) 993-4601
FAX (863) 993-4606
Dixie County
149 N.E. 241st St.
Cross City, FL 32628
(352) 498-1360
FAX (352) 498-1363
Duval County
515 W. 6th St.
Jacksonville, FL 32206
(904) 630-3330
FAX (904) 632-5338
Escambia County
1295 W. Fairfield Dr.
Pensacola, FL 32501
(850) 595-6500
FAX (850) 595-6745
Flagler County
301 S. Lemon St.
Bunnell, FL 32110
(386) 437-7350
FAX (386) 437-8207
Franklin County
139 12th St.
Apalachicola, FL 32320
(850) 653-2111
FAX (850) 653-9896
Gadsden County
278 LaSalle LeFall Dr.
Quincy, FL 32353
(850) 875-7200, ext. 325
FAX (850) 627-9134
Gilchrist County
119 N.E. 1st St.
Trenton, FL 32693
(352) 463-3120
FAX 352-463-3425
Glades County
998 Hwy. 27
Moore Haven, FL 33471
(863) 946-0707
FAX (863) 946-3097
Gulf County
2475 Garrison Ave.
Port St. Joe, FL 32456
(850) 227-1276
FAX (850) 227-1766
Hamilton County
209 S.E. Central Ave.
Jasper, FL 32052
(386) 792-1414
FAX (386) 792-2352
Hardee County
115 K D Revell Rd.
Wauchula, FL 33873-2051
(863) 773-4161
FAX (863) 773-0978
Hendry County
1140 Pratt Blvd.
LaBelle, FL 33975-0070
(863) 674-4056, ext. 108
FAX (863) 674-4605
Hernando County
300 South Main St.
Brooksville, FL 34601
(354) 540-6800
FAX (352) 754-4132
Highlands County
7205 S. George Blvd.
Sebring, FL 33875
(863) 386-6040, ext. 215
FAX (863) 386-6048
Hillsborough County
1105 East Kennedy Blvd.
Tampa, Fl 33604
(813) 307-8000
FAX (813) 903-3363 or
(813) 903-3370
Holmes County
603 Scenic Circle
Bonifay, FL 32425
(850) 547-8500
FAX (850) 547-8515
Indian River County
1900 27th St.
Vero Beach, FL 32960
(772) 794-7400
FAX (772) 794-7453
Jackson County
3045 4th St.
Marianna, FL 32447
(850) 526-2412
FAX (850) 718-0383
Jefferson County
1255 W. Washington St.
Monticello, FL 32344
(850) 342-0170
FAX (850) 342-0257
Lafayette County
140 S.W. Virginia Circle
Mayo, FL 32066-1806
(386) 294-1321
FAX (386) 294-2817
Lake County
16140 U.S. Hwy. 441
Eustis, FL 32726
(352) 589-6424
FAX (352) 589-6492
Lake County Satellite
835 7th St. Bldg. B, Ste 4
Clermont, FL 34711
(352) 394-4399, ext. 113
Lee County
3920 Michigan Ave.
Ft. Meyers, FL 33916
(239) 332-9572
FAX (239) 332-9567
Leon County
2965 Municipal Way
Tallahassee, FL 32316
(850) 922-6377
FAX (850) 487-9811
Levy County
66 W. Main St.
Bronson, FL 32621
(352) 486-5300
FAX (352) 486-5307
Liberty County
12832 North Central Ave.
Bristol, FL 32321
(850) 643-2415
FAX (850) 643-5689
Madison County
800 3rd St.
Madison, FL 32340
(850) 973-5000
FAX (850) 973-5007
Manatee County
410 6th Ave. E.
Bradenton, FL 34208-1968
(941) 748-0747, ext. 1222
FAX (941) 714-7282
Marion County
1801 S.E. 32nd Ave.
Ocala, FL 34478
(352) 629-0137
FAX (352) 694-1613
Martin County
3441 SE Willoughby Blvd.
Stuart, FL 34994
(772) 221-4002
FAX (772) 221-4990
Miami-Dade County
8175 N.W. 12th St.
Suite 300
Miami, Florida 33126
(305) 324-2400
FAX (786) 336-1297
Monroe County
1100 Simonton St.
Key West, FL 33041-6193
(305) 293-7500
FAX (305) 292-6872
Nassau County
30 South 4th St.
Fernandina Beach, FL
32035-0517
(904) 548-1800
FAX (904) 277-7286
Okaloosa County
221 Hospital Drive, N.E.
Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548
(850) 833-9245
FAX (850) 833-9252
Okeechobee County
1728 N.W. 9th Ave.
Okeechobee, FL 34973
(863) 462-5804
FAX (863) 462-5790
Orange County
6101 Lake Ellenor Dr.
Orlando, FL 32809
(407) 858-1400
FAX (407) 858-5514
East Orlando Satellite
Office
12050 E. Colonial Dr.
Orlando, FL 32826
(407) 249-6232, ext. 249
Osceola County
1875 Boggy Creek Rd.
Kissimmee, FL 34745 (407) 343-2000
FAX (407) 343-2002
Palm Beach County
826 Evernia St.
West Palm Beach, FL
33402
(561) 840-4500
FAX (561) 355-3035
Pasco County
13941 15th St., Room 212
Dade City, FL 33525-4010
(352) 521-1450
FAX (352) 521-1386
New Port Richey
Satellite Office
10841 Little Rd.
New Port Richey, FL 34654
(727) 861-5250, ext. 151
Pinellas County
205 Dr. Martin Luther King
Jr. Blvd. North
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 820-4155
Polk County
1290 Golfview Ave.
Bartow, FL 33830
(863) 519-7900, ext. 1051
FAX (863) 519-7587
Putnam County
2801 Kennedy St.
Palatka, FL 32177
(386) 326-3274
FAX (386) 326-3351
Santa Rosa County
5527 Stewart St.
Milton, FL 32572-0929
(850) 983-5200
FAX (850) 983-5215
Sarasota County
2200 Ringling Blvd
Sarasota, FL 34237
(941) 861-2810
FAX (941) 861-2584
Venice Satellite Office
7810 S. Tamiami Trail
Unit A-5
Venice, FL 34293
(941) 861-3528
Seminole County
400 West Airport Blvd.
Sanford, FL 32773-5496
(407) 665-3000
FAX (407) 665-3385
St. Johns County
1955 U.S. 1 South,
Suite 100
St. Augustine, FL 32086
(904) 825-5055
FAX (904) 823-4062
St. Lucie County
5150 N.W. Milner Rd.
Port St. Lucie, FL 34983
(772) 462-3800
FAX (772) 873-4941
Sumter County
415 E. Noble Ave.
Bushnell, FL 33513
(352) 793-6979, ext. 301
FAX (352) 568-0930
Wildwood Satellite Office
104 Rutland St.
Wildwood, FL 34785
(352) 330-1313, ext. 245
FAX (352) 568-0930
Suwannee County
915 Nobles Ferry Rd.
Live Oak, FL 32060
(386) 362-2708
FAX (386) 362-6301
Taylor County
1215 Peacock Avenue
Perry, FL 32347
(850) 584-5087, ext. 174
FAX (850) 584-8653
Union County
495 East Main St.
Lake Butler, FL 32054
(386) 496-3211
FAX (386) 496-1599
Volusia County
1845 Holsonback Dr.
Daytona Beach, FL 32120
(386) 736-5579
FAX (386) 736-5433
Wakulla County
48 Oak St.
Crawfordville, FL 32327
(850) 926-2558
FAX (850) 926-1938
Walton County
475 State Hwy. 83
DeFuniak Springs, FL
32433
(850) 892-8015
FAX (850) 892-8024
Washington County
1338 South Blvd.
Chipley, FL 32428
(850) 638-6240
FAX (850) 638-6244
Disaster contact information
Florida Emergency Information Line: 800-342-3557
FEMA Registration, first step for disaster assistance:
800-621-3362 or 800-621-FEMA
FEMA, TTY for hearing impaired: 800-462-7585
FEMA Fraud and Abuse Hotline (Department of
Homeland Security): 800-323-8603
American Red Cross-food, shelter, financial assistance: 866-438-4636
To volunteer and donate: 866-435-7669
Salvation Army: 800-725-2769
Hunger Hotline, Florida Association for Community
Actions: 800-329-3663
America's Second Harvest (food) 800-771-2303
Florida Volunteer and Donations Hotline 800-354-3571
Project HOPE, crisis counseling (Florida Department of
Children and Families): 866-518-1825
Disaster Food Stamp Hotline (Florida Department of
Children and Families): 800-342-9274
Florida Department of Financial Services, claims
problems: 800-227-8676 or 800-22-STORM
Price Gouging Hotline (Florida State Attorney General):
800-646-0444
Price Gouging Hotline (Florida Department of
Agriculture and Consumer Services): 800-435-7352
Florida Abuse Hotline: 800-962-2873 or 1-800-96ABUSE
U.S. Department of Veterans' Affairs, information and
referral: 800-827-1000
Florida Child Care, resource and referral: 888-352-4453
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