Special Needs & Vulnerable Populations

Certain individuals in the community may have special problems to deal with in a disaster, including the elderly, people with medical problems, and people with certain disabilities (mobility, visually impaired, hard of hearing, developmental or cognitive disabilities). If you have a family member who is one of these individuals, there are special considerations to think about and plan for before a disaster occurs.

• If the family member has medications or equipment that they are dependent on, plan to bring those items with you if an evacuation is necessary.
• Special consideration needs to be given to medical equipment that needs power. Availability, storage and movement of oxygen tanks needs to be evaluated for individuals who are required to be on oxygen.
• Shelters will not have additional medication or medical equipment available. Documentation about insurance and medical conditions should also accompany the person.
• Plan ahead for transportation needs for family members with special needs. Transportation for the general public in an emergency evacuation may not be suitable for their situation.
• If the family member has special dietary needs, bring these special foods and supplements with you.
• Many special needs populations are easily upset and stressed by sudden and frightening changes. Plans should be made to ensure that a caregiver or trusted family member is able to stay with them at all times during an evacuation.