Emergency Preparedness

Compile a list of supplies needed for at least a week; check batteries and expiration dates, replacing items as necessary.

Establish a method to receive emergency alerts, such as signing up for notifications.

Develop a contact list with phone numbers and email addresses of individuals who contribute to your physical, mental, or emotional well-being, including family, friends, neighbors, and care providers. Consider how you will communicate with them if power goes out or phones are inoperable. Arrange for your contacts to check on you directly.

Identify multiple locations you could evacuate to and plan your routes.

Consider how to express your needs to those supporting you during an emergency.

Incorporate visuals in your plan if they aid understanding.

If you have a service animal, include their needs in your planning.

For those using assistive technologies, devise a strategy for evacuating with your devices or replacing equipment if it becomes lost or damaged.

If you rely on a power wheelchair, keep a lightweight manual chair on hand as a backup, if possible.

Practice executing your emergency plan.

Review and revise your plan annually.

Share your plan with those who support you.