Special Needs

Elderly and Impaired Mobility Individuals

For those with impaired mobility, during an earthquake you may not be able to seek cover. Debris may block exits and elevators may not work.

Preparation
Let neighbors know you may have trouble getting out.
Clear a path.
Find alternate routes.
Secure heavy objects, such as bookcases, which might block your path.
If you are in a wheelchair, practice locking the wheels and covering your head with your arms.

During an earthquake
If you are in a wheelchair, stay in it. Lock the wheels and cover your head with your arms. If you are in bed or out of your chair, seek cover under a bed, desk or table. Protect yourself from falling objects.
If you feel the ground move, assume it is an earthquake and seek cover under heavy furniture or in a doorway, away from walls on the outside of buildings. Drop to your knees and protect your head with your arms.

After an earthquake
If you are trapped, do anything to attract attention. If you've previously asked your neighbors, they will be looking for you. If you need help, ask.

Hearing impaired

The biggest threat is after the quake, when communicating might be difficult.

Preparation
Make sure you have a flashlight, paper, and pencil next to your bed.
Ask a neighbor to be a source of emergency information as it comes over his radio.
Remind neighbors and co-workers that you cannot hear an evacuation order.
Store extra hearing aid batteries at home and at work or school.
If you are trapped, knock on doors or hit objects together to let others know you are there. Have others give you disaster information as it comes over the radio.

Vision impaired

After a quake, your usual surroundings may be disrupted, exits may be blocked, and seeing-eye dogs might be too injured or frightened to be relied upon.

Preparation
Keep an extra cane at home and at work or school.
Know alternate escape routes.
Talk with a neighbor beforehand.
If you hear falling objects, there will probably be obstructions. Ask others for help. Use your cane. If you are trapped, make noise to alert others. If the electricity fails and it is dark, you may be able to assist others in finding their way.

 

 

 

Current Emergency Information