PLANNING FOR SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

You may have special considerations during an emergency, such as vision, hearing, mobility, speech, language or understanding limitations. Your plan should include the things you may need to shelter in your home or away from your home

■ Develop a “buddy” system with family, friends and neighbours to check on each other after an emergency. Telephones may not be working, so arrange check-ins with people who live near you. You may want to give your “buddy” a key to your home.

■ Keep a list of medications, allergies and special equipment. Include the name, address and telephone numbers of important contacts like your doctor, pharmacist, family members, clergy or friends. Provide a copy to each “buddy” and keep a copy with you at all times.

■ Remove or properly secure hazards in the home that could fall or cause injury.

■ Develop a backup plan for life-sustaining equipment so it works in the event of a power outage, which may include buying an emergency generator. Ensure you know how to properly operate and fuel your equipment.

■ If you use oxygen, ensure the tank is secure.

■ If you use a wheelchair or walking aids, keep them near you at all times and have extra walking aids in other areas of the house.

■ Place a battery-powered night light or flashlight in each room.

■ Keep a whistle or horn handy to signal for help.

■ If you use battery-powered equipment, ensure you have extra batteries properly stored and accessible.

■ If you require continued service from a service provider during an emergency, make a list of all the required contact and service information and put it with your important papers. Ask each service provider for a summary of their emergency plans so you know what to expect following an emergency or disaster.