Preparing for Storm Evacuation: Tips for You and Your Pets in Washington, DC

9/8/2023 (Permalink)

Be prepared for a storm evacuation with these tips.

SERVPRO of Washington, DC has these tips for people with disabilities in our community during an evacuation

Emergencies and natural disasters can happen unexpectedly, and being prepared is crucial, especially for individuals with disabilities. SERVPRO of Washington, DC is here to provide essential tips for our community members who may require additional assistance during evacuations.

Prepare a Readiness Kit

One of the first steps is to have an emergency kit ready in case you need to evacuate quickly. Your kit should include essential items such as:

• Non-perishable food and water
• Medications, along with a list detailing dosages and allergies
• Medical supplies and equipment, including any necessary batteries
• Personal mobility aids like wheelchairs, canes, or braces
• Medical identification, including bracelets or tags with pertinent information for first responders
• Medical insurance cards
• Written list of emergency contacts

Plan for Transportation

Even if you have your own vehicle, it's essential to plan for backup transportation. Severe weather or flooding may damage your car. Consider accessible transportation options and discuss your needs with your healthcare provider.

Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider

Talk to your healthcare provider about your emergency plans and ask for their recommendations regarding:

• Specific medical devices you might require during an evacuation
• Where to obtain necessary medical supplies
• Accessible transportation options
• Directions to a medical facility in case of emergency
• The availability of disability ramps at medical facilities

Care for Service Animals

Service animals play a crucial role in the lives of many individuals. To ensure their safety during emergencies:

• Pack extra food, water, and supplies for your service animal in your kit
• Inform emergency responders that your service animal is with you
• Be aware that some shelters or buildings may have policies regarding service animal entry
• By following these preparedness guidelines, individuals with disabilities can enhance their safety and well-being during evacuation situations. Remember that planning ahead can make all the difference when facing unexpected emergencies.

For More Information:

To learn more about emergency preparedness for individuals with functional needs, visit Ready.gov's resource page.

At SERVPRO of Washington, DC we are dedicated to helping our community stay safe and informed. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Your safety is our top priority.

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs