A Game Plan for Special Needs: Caring for Disabled Family Members During a Hurricane

Introduction

Preparing for a hurricane can be a daunting task, especially when you have a disabled family member to take care of. Hurricanes can cause major disruptions and evacuations can be particularly challenging. Nonetheless, it is essential that you put together a comprehensive plan to ensure that you are ready for the worst-case scenario. In this article, we will show you how to create a game plan for your special needs family member during a hurricane.

Understanding the Special Needs of Disabled Family Members During a Hurricane

Medical Needs

When a hurricane strikes, access to healthcare services is often disrupted. Therefore, it is important that you have adequate medical supplies to last you through the event. These supplies should include enough prescription medication to last you several weeks, first-aid kits, and any other necessary medical equipment. Additionally, it may be wise to create an emergency medical contact list with the details of your loved one's doctor, hospital, and any other medical professionals involved in their care.

Personal Care Needs

Disabilities can affect personal hygiene and cleanliness. It is important to ensure that you have enough hygiene products to last you throughout the hurricane. This includes items such as adult diapers, bug spray, sunscreen, and soap. You can also use this opportunity to create a schedule for bathing or other personal care routines to avoid any potential issues during the event.

Mobility Needs

For disabled family members, mobility can be a significant challenge during a hurricane. It is important that you ensure that you have a way to transport them in and out of the evacuation area. You may also need to assist them if they need help walking or transferring from one place to another. Consider investing in a wheelchair ramp or lift and make sure that you know how to use it well in advance.

Preparing Your Home for Your Special Needs Family Member During a Hurricane

Making Your Home Safe for Disability Needs

When preparing your home for a hurricane, it is important that you make accommodations for the disabled family member living with you. This can involve placing grab bars or handrails throughout the house to assist with mobility, securing furniture and equipment to avoid any injuries, and ensuring that the home is free from clutter and any obstacles that might create fall hazards.

Securing External Safety Equipment

If you have any external safety equipment such as a generator, it is important to ensure that they are installed correctly and safely. You should also ensure that you have enough fuel to last you through the event. Additionally, it may be wise to invest in hurricane shutters or other protective measures to protect your loved one from debris during the storm.

Evacuation Planning for Disabled Family Members

If you live in an evacuation zone, it is important that you plan ahead to ensure that your special needs family member is taken care of. Contact your local emergency management office to identify resources available for people with disabilities. Also, ensure that you have supplies packed in advance if you need to evacuate quickly.

How to Respond in the Aftermath of a Hurricane

Assessing Damage to Your Property

After the hurricane subsides, it is important that you assess your property for damage. Ensure that your special needs family member is safe and that they have enough food, water, and other essentials. If you have any concerns about their health, seek medical attention immediately.

Receiving Support from Community Agencies

After a hurricane, community agencies such as the Red Cross often provide support for people with disabilities. These services include medical assistance, personal care, mobility, transportation, and more. Contact your local agency to learn more about the resources available to you.

Seeking Emotional Support

Caring for a special needs family member during a hurricane can be emotionally draining. Ensure that you take some time to rest, relax, and recharge. Seek support from friends and family members or consider getting in touch with a counselor or therapist to help you cope with the stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I do if my special needs family member requires emergency medical attention during a hurricane?

  If your loved one requires emergency medical attention during a hurricane, contact 911 or your local emergency services immediately. Make sure that you have a copy of their medical records and any necessary medications at hand.

• If I need to evacuate, how can I make sure that my special needs family member is taken care of?

  If you live in an evacuation zone, reach out to your local emergency management office to identify resources available for people with disabilities. Also, ensure that you have supplies packed in advance if you need to evacuate quickly.

• How can I make sure that my property is safe for my special needs family member during a hurricane?

  You can make your property safe for your loved one by placing grab bars or handrails throughout the house to assist with mobility, securing furniture and equipment to avoid any injuries, and ensuring that the home is free from clutter and any obstacles that might create fall hazards.

• What community agencies can help me after a hurricane?

  Community agencies such as the Red Cross often provide support for people with disabilities. These services include medical assistance, personal care, mobility, transportation, and more.

• How can I receive emotional support after caring for a special needs family member during a hurricane?

  You can seek emotional support from friends and family members or consider getting in touch with a counselor or therapist to help you cope with the stress.

Conclusion

When it comes to caring for a special needs family member during a hurricane, it is essential that you put together a comprehensive plan that takes into account their unique needs and challenges. By preparing in advance, you can ensure that your loved one will be safe during the event, regardless of its severity. To those living in hurricane-prone areas, remember always to stay informed and prepared as you never know when a storm might hit.

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Additional Resources

• Disability Preparedness – Ready.gov
• People with Disabilities – Red Cross
• Disaster Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities – FEMA

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