Back in November, I wrote about "Street Smarts for Senior Pedestrians". This week I'd like to touch on those with special needs, not just the elderly, who may have complications getting around their home which could become a death trap in an emergency. People with special needs include a number of groups of people in terms of age, type of disability, gender, ethnicity and socioeconomic status. Special populations are at risk for a number of reasons:

• Decreased mobility, health, sight, and hearing may limit a person's ability to take the quick action necessary to escape during an emergency.
  
• Depending on physical limitations, many of the actions an individual can take to protect themselves from dangers may require help from a caretaker, neighbor, or outside source.

Let's use fire as an example. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, approximately 3,500 Americans die and 20,000 are injured in fires each year. Special populations such as older adults, people with disabilities, the deaf or hard of hearing and the visually impaired can significantly increase their chances of surviving a fire by practicing proven fire safety precautions.

I know it sounds repetitive, but it is vitally important to make and practice escape plans. In the event of a fire, remember, time is the biggest enemy and every second counts!

• Involve the assistance of a building manager, family member, neighbor or an entrusted friend when writing and practicing your fire escape plan. Don't assume you will be around to assist when an emergency occurs. You should always have at least three backups.
• Know at least two exits from every room.
• If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to make sure they get through the doorways.
• Practice opening locked or barred doors and windows. If windows and barred doors are not opened frequently, it may become difficult to open during an emergency. Remember also, the strength of someone in need may not be what it used to.
• When a fire occurs, do not waste any time saving property. Leave the home immediately. Once out, stay out.
  

• Unless instructed by the fire department, never use an elevator during a fire.
• Be sure your street address is clearly marked and visible from the street.
• Know which local emergency services are available and have those numbers posted or memorized. There are many forms you can use to write in your emergency numbers for your area, as well as the people you have included in your plan. For your convenience, I have included two of our most popular forms for personal emergency planning.
  

In closing, your plan doesn't have to be an elaborate one to be effective. What is important is that you have a plan, and that it is tailored to fit your needs. And of course don't forget…practice, practice, practice!