Resource Link

https://moddcouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/SDM-BOOKLET-9-EMERGENCY-PREPAREDNESS-FINAL.pdf

Resource Description

Introduction: This document is a guide about emergency planning for people with disabilities. It is part of a series about supported decision-making, which means getting help from trusted people to make your own choices. The guide explains how to prepare for emergencies like storms, floods, and power outages by working with supporters to make plans and gather supplies.

Resource Summary

Content Summary: The guide begins by explaining that emergencies can be very hard for people with disabilities. You might need special help finding accessible shelter, getting medical care, or staying connected with people who support you. But you can get ready for emergencies by planning ahead with help from people you trust. Supported decision-making means asking friends, family, doctors, case managers and other trusted people for advice while staying in control of your own choices. The guide says everyone uses supported decision-making in their daily lives, like asking friends for relationship advice or working with a job coach to find work. Research shows that when people with disabilities make their own decisions with support, they often have better, safer lives. The guide gives clear steps to get ready for emergencies. First, make a list of things you need to stay healthy, like a week's worth of food, water, medicine, and medical supplies. Then make a list of your supporters and their contact information. Pack an emergency "Go Bag" with important items in case you need to leave home quickly. The bag should have things like medications, ID cards, phone chargers, and contact lists. You should also make an emergency plan and practice it with your supporters. The plan should say where you'll go in an emergency, how you'll get there, what you'll bring, and how you'll stay in touch with people. Practice packing your Go Bag and going through your plan regularly. The guide recommends contacting emergency services before a crisis happens. Let your local fire department, ambulance services, and Red Cross know about your needs. Tell them if you need accessible transportation or have a service animal. Give them copies of your emergency lists and plans. Help is available to make these plans. The Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council and its partners can answer questions and connect you with people who can help you prepare. The guide includes contact information for these organizations and links to more emergency planning resources. Writing an emergency plan might feel overwhelming, but taking small steps with support from people you trust can help you be ready when emergencies happen. The key is working together with your supporters to make plans that work for you.