Help for people with additional needs

If you think you will need help during a disaster, talk to family, friends, and others who will be part of your personal support network.

Quick tips for getting prepared

Make plans

  • Write down your emergency plan and share it with your support network
  • Plan how to evacuate from your home or workplace and select several options of where to go if there's a disaster
  • Practice your plan with those who have agreed to be part of your support network

Prepare your support network

  • Make sure that someone has a key to your home and knows where you keep your emergency supplies.
  • Prepare a health information card detailing your medical needs, including medications and allergy information.
  • Teach your support network how to use any lifesaving equipment, and how to administer medication in case of an emergency.
  • If you undergo routine treatments or receive regular services such as home health care, treatment, or transportation, talk to your service provider about their emergency plans.

Prepare your supplies

  • If you take medication, have enough to make it on your own for a week or longer.
  • Consider needs such as eyeglasses, hearing aids and batteries, wheelchair batteries, and oxygen.
  • Keep a list of the style and serial number of medical devices. Include operating information and instructions. Make sure your support network has copies of these documents.

Take a closer look

Will you need special assistance during an emergency? Use these resources to help you plan what you'll need.

Print out these checklists, forms, and other tools

Visit these online resources for more help preparing