Planning for the Disabled

Plan and Prepare
Develop a "buddy" system with your family, friends, neighbours, and co-workers. Plan how to help each other in an emergency. If you live alone, you may want to give your buddy a key to your home.

• Make a list of your medications and allergies; special equipment; names, addresses and phone numbers of your doctor, pharmacy, family members and friends; and any other important information. Give a copy to each buddy and keep a copy with you at all times.
• Anchor items such as medical equipment, heavy appliances, bookcases, and hanging plants. Place heavy objects on low shelves. Move beds away from heavy picture frames and windows.
• Remove barriers such as bookcases which may block your safe exit after an earthquake. Install security night lights to provide emergency lighting if the power goes off.
• Make a 72-hour emergency supply kit. (Use the Emergency Supplies checklist as a guide.) Make a first-aid kit, with extra medicine and a pair of glasses. Store extra batteries for battery-operated equipment such as hearing aides and wheelchairs. Keep a mini-survival kit in your car.

Special Tips

• If you are hearing impaired, keep a battery-operated television for receiving emergency information if the power is out. Store a flashlight, pencil, and pad for communicating. Arrange for hearing friends or co-workers to relay emergency information that is broadcast on the radio.
• If you are vision impaired, keep extra canes around your home. Plan alternate evacuation routes from home and office. Store extra food and supplies for your guide dog.
• If you use a wheelchair, tie a lightweight drawstring bag to it where you can keep medicines, sanitary aides, a small flashlight, and a horn to signal for help. Find two useable exits from each room and from your building. Participate in earthquake drills, moving to cover, if possible, locking the wheels, and protecting your head with your arms, a pillow, lap robe, books, or any handy object.