Sunday, July 26 marks the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This historical civil rights law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities by providing equal physical, programmatic and communication access for all Americans.
The Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management recommends individuals living with disabilities and others with access and functional needs to plan for their specific health, safety and independence during a disaster by taking charge of their personal emergency preparedness. Below are some helpful tips in preparing persons with disabilities and others with access and functional needs for disasters:
- Put together a disaster preparedness kit that includes food, water, copies of medical prescriptions, doctor’s orders, styles and serial numbers of assistive devices, medical alert tags or bracelets or written descriptions of your disability and support needs
- Medical insurance cards, extra eyeglasses, back-up supply of visual aids, extra batteries for hearing aids, battery charger for motorized wheelchairs or other assistive technology devices
- A laminated personal communications board if you might need assistance with being understood or understanding others
- Persons with allergies or chemical sensitives make sure to include items that you are able to use for personal hygiene and for cleanup
- Create a Personal Support Network Plan that includes list of family, friends and others who will be able to assist and/or check-in on you during and after disasters
- Teach your team on how to use any lifesaving equipment or medicine in case of an emergency. If you use a wheelchair, oxygen or other medical equipment, show your friends on how to use these assistive devices so they can move you or help to evacuate you.
Los Angeles County residents and businesses including persons with disabilities and others with access and functional needs may call 211 LA County for emergency preparedness information and other referral services. The toll-free 2-1-1 number is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. 211 LA County services can also be accessed at www.211la.org. To register for the Specific Needs Awareness Planning program please go to https://snap.lacounty.gov. For disaster/emergency preparedness information, please access www.lacoa.org and/or www.espfocus.org.
