Emergency Preparedness

Families with special needs must be prepared for evacuation or other emergences. Careful preparation will reduce stress and hardship. Remember that more time may be needed to evacuate.
Every family should build an emergency kit that includes clothing, first aid supplies and food and water for each person for 3 days. You may also want to include the following when packing for an evacuation:

  • 30 days medication supply.
  • Important documents (medical records, insurance papers, birth certificates).
  • Enough diapers and clothing for 7 days.
  • Bed rail.
  • Special eating utensils.
  • Special food.
  • Entertainment for children (e.g., games, cards, books).
  • Comfort items.
  • Battery operated flashlight and radio.
  • Current photos of the family.
  • Physical, behavioral, and medical description of the special needs including a list of necessary medication.
  • Contact information for your family’s physician and care team.

Service Animals

You will also need to provide for any service animals in your family. Include food and water for them as part of your emergency kit. As part of your advance planning, contact your local emergency preparedness team to find out their policy around animals for emergency services and shelters. In your packet of important papers be sure to include the dog’s license proof of vaccinations. Remember that in a disaster the guide dog may become confused, and may need more attention than usual.

Power Loss

In times of disaster, extended power outages may last for weeks. If your household has vital medical equipment, consider backup power sources like batteries or generators. Evaluate options for places you can go that may still have power. This could include making arrangements with friends, family or community agencies in different areas of your city. Discuss plans with your care team in advance to determine if your child should be moved to a hospital or other facility where power is available.

Additional Resources

The British Columbia Provincial Emergency Program has a number of resources available online. Each province and municipality should provide information on what plans are in place for your area.

This document, Personal Preparedness Tips for People With Disabilities, provides information and planning tips for families with special needs. Most of the information would apply to families anywhere in the country. For more national information please see Public Safety Canada.

Created by with resources from MilitaryHOMEFRONT and British Columbia Provincial Emergency Preparedness.
 

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