News reports filled with heartbreaking images of the devastation wreaked by Hurricane Dorian on the Bahamas are still fresh in many of our minds. While Long Island is frequently spared from the damage of such severe storms, we still remain vulnerable to natural and man-made disasters. Planning ahead is essential, especially during hurricane season.
For most, an emergency plan involves stocking up on milk, water, bread and extra batteries for the flashlight. Depending on the severity of the situation, packing up a few necessities, the kids, and the pets and driving to a safer location might be required. This is a luxury reserved for the able-bodied, but what if you are elderly and/or disabled? What if you have medical equipment that requires electricity? How do you evacuate if the elevator becomes inoperable? Assuming you get to the ground floor, who transports you to safety? Will there be food for your service animal?
For those with special needs, an emergency kit will vary depending on the nature of a disability, but might include extra batteries for hearing aids, a collapsible manual wheel chair, a list of caregivers and phone numbers in a sealed plastic baggie, enough medications for a week, catheters, a portable oxygen tank, a few cans of dog food, information in braille, snacks compatible with dietary restrictions, etc.
A generator, for many, is merely a luxury which would keep the refrigerator cold and the TV on. For others who rely on electrically powered medical equipment, a generator is a necessity. There are government funded programs to address this. FEMA has a generator reimbursement program for this purpose. See: https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/94768
There are also many federal, state, and local registries for the disabled which notify first responders and help them locate those who might not be able to evacuate on their own.
An excellent resource for the disabled can be found on FEMA’s website,
Although the elderly and disabled are disproportionately endangered and affected by natural and man-made disasters, effective planning and knowledge of resources can help to avoid tragedies.
Need help with planning for those with special needs? Call me! (516) 584-2007.