- Medical
Alert System
Consider getting a medical alert system that
will allow you to call for help if you are immobilized in an
emergency. Most require a working phone line, so have a back-up
plan (e.g. cell-phone or pager) if the regular landlines are
disrupted.
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- Personal
Care Attendant
If
you use a personal
care attendant obtained
from an agency, check to
see if the agency has special
provisions for emergencies,
such as providing services
at another location should
an evacuation be ordered.
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- Communicating
with Emergency Personnel
If
you have communication difficulties,
prepare in advance for how
you will communicate
with emergency personnel.
Think about what they might
need to know about you and
be prepared to say it briefly
or keep a written copy with
you.
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- Backup
Power Supply
Learn what to do in case of power outages and personal injuries.
Know how to connect and start a back-up power supply for
essential medical equipment.
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- Manual
Wheelchair
If you use an electric wheelchair or scooter, have a manual
wheelchair for backup.
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- Extra
Mobility Devices
Walking aids should be near you at all times. Store extra
walking aids in different rooms throughout your home.
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- Identify
Safe Rooms and Exits
If you live in an apartment, ask the management to identify and
mark accessible exits and access to areas designated
for emergency shelter or safe rooms. Ask about
plans for alerting and evacuating those with sensory disabilities.
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- Shutting
Off Utilities
Know how and when to turn off water, gas and electricity at
the main switches or valves. Keep any tools you will need near
gas and water shut off valves. Turn off the utilities only if
you suspect the lines are damaged, you suspect a leak, or if
local officials instruct you to do so.
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- Using
Fire Extinguishers
Know where fire exits and fire extinguishers (ABC
type) are at in your home or building. If you do not know how
to operate a fire extinguisher get training from your local fire
department.
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- Smoke
Alarms
Install smoke alarms on each level of your home,
especially near bedrooms. Individuals with sensory disabilities
should consider installing smoke alarms that have strobe lights
and vibrating pads. Also, consider installing a carbon monoxide
alarm in your home.
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- First
Aid/CPR & AED
Take a first aid/CPR & AED (Automatic External
Defibrillation) class from your local Red Cross. The American
Red Cross can accommodate people with disabilities; just remember
to discuss your needs when registering for the class.
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Be
Responsible - Be Ready - Be Prepared!
Your Emergency Preparedness Team
Kings County Fire Department, Office of Emergency Management
280 Campus Drive Hanford, CA 93230
(559) 582-3211, Ext. 2634
www.kingscountyoem.com |
