Domina DiBiase, Emergency Preparedness Subject Matter Expert

Last Tuesday, I attended an “Access and Functional Needs Whole Community Planning Workshop” in Hartford. The workshop was hosted by the Capital Region Emergency Planning Council and included representatives from hospitals, local public health, EMS, long term care, emergency management, and social services, among others. CHCACT attended on behalf of the federally qualified health centers in the region!

During this workshop, participants learned about the access and functional needs of community members with disabilities and the things we would need to consider in our emergency planning for this population. We discussed effective communication strategies, available resources, transportation needs, and accessibility of resources and spaces. For example, I learned that the Show Me for Emergencies app and creating accessible websites can help facilitate communication with people with disabilities. I also discovered the “Disability Etiquette” manual, developed by the United Spinal Association, which provides tips for interacting with people with disabilities.

Most importantly, this workshop highlighted the importance of planning discussions and personal preparedness plans. While each agency that participated in the workshop has an extensive emergency operations plan, we all agreed that it is critical for our clients, friends, and neighbors to have their own plans as well. Here are some resources to help your and your family create your own emergency preparedness plans:

• Emergency Power Planning for People Who Use Electricity and Battery-Dependent Assistive Technology and Medical Devices
• Planning for Individuals with Disabilities
• Planning for Older Adults
• Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area

Remember: it’s never too late to start creating your preparedness plan!

Reach out with any questions!

- Domina