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Planning Guide for Seniors and
Individuals with Disabilities
 Seniors may
be more vulnerable to disaster-caused stress than others. While many seniors
are in good health, others may have one or more impairments that can become
disabilities in an emergency. Even if you have physical limitations, you
still can protect yourself.
Disaster
Can Strike Quickly and Without Warning! Protect yourself and cope with
disaster by planning ahead!
Before the Earthquake:
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Prepare to self-sufficient for at least three days; water, food,
batteries.
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Remove all small rugs that are not anchored to the floor. They
may slide or trip you.
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Move beds away from windows.
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Place heavy objects on low shelves.
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Arrange for a buddy system. Do not isolate yourself from friends
and neighbors. Let them know about any special needs.
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Identify exits and possible alternate escape routes. Avoid areas
where you could become trapped and escape notice of rescue workers.
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If you wear glasses, keep an extra pair with your emergency
supplies.
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If you use life support equipment, such as oxygen, have someone
fasten the tank to prevent it from falling over in an earthquake.
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Assess your own special needs. Be sure to include your
requirements for medications and/or special equipment.
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Keep duplicate medications and prescriptions in a safe place,
where they can easily be reached. They should be ready to be taken with
you in case of an evacuation.
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Keep names and numbers of doctors, pharmacies and family members
all together.
Impaired Hearing:
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Install a
fire and smoke alarm designed for hearing impaired persons. System
features flashing strobe light to gain attention.
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Install
and learn how to use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD).
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Remember
to keep and extra battery supply for your hearing aid.
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Have pads
and pencils available for communication with others.
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Stay
aware, informed and involved in your neighborhood residence.
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Keep a
whistle to signal for help.
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Keep
walking aids in strategic area around your home to help you around
obstacles and hazards that may result from disaster.
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Put a
security light in each room. These lights plug into any outlet and light
up automatically if there is a loss of electricity.
During and After an Earthquake:
Remain Calm
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If you are in bed or sitting down, do not get up (as long as
nothing is going to fall on you). Stay where your are and cover your head
and neck.
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If you are in a wheelchair, stay in it, lock the wheels, and
cover your head and neck with your hands.
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Turn on your portable radio for instructions and news reports.
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Prepare for aftershocks.
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If you evacuate your home, leave a message at your home telling
family members and others where you can be found.
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