I ELDERLY/ SPECIAL NEEDS AND DISASTERS People with disabilities should take extra precautions when preparing for a disaster. One of the most important things you can do is have someone who can help you evacuate and take care of you. During an emergency, your usual care giver may not be able to help you. Make sure your buddy knows how to operate any medical equipment you use. When planning for the care of the elderly and those with special needs, please consider the following recommendations: • Establish a close network of relatives and friends who can assist your family in an emergency. • Make sure helpers know where to find the disaster supply kit which includes emergency supplies, medicines, and other essential equipment. • Remind family members to always wear a medical alert tag or bracelet if they have threatening health conditions. • Compose a list of special items, equipment and supplies family members will need during a disaster. Extra supplies people with disabilities and special needs may require are: o Prescription medications with a record of when and how much of the medicine you should receive Prosthetic devices List of style and serial numbers of medical devices Extra eye glasses and a record of the prescription Emergency medical certification Extra oxygen Extra pillows, bedding Medical insurance and Medicare cards Back-up power supplies or generators for heat or air-conditioning Extra wheelchair batteries Hearing aids, batteries o o o o o o o o 24 EARTHQUAKES | Before an Earthquake • Secure water heater, storage shelves, heavy mirrors, shelves, etc., to walls. • Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. • Know where and how to shut off electricity, gas and water at main switches and valves. • Have earthquake drills - identify safe spots in each room. • Have an out-of-state contact person. • Develop a plan for reuniting your family after an earthquake. • Review your insurance policies. • Keep a good pair of shoes and a flashlight near your bed. • Prepare to survive on your own for at least three days. See "Your Family Disaster Supplies Kit" for instructions. During an Earthquake • Stay calm. • Inside: stay inside and find protection in a doorway, or crouch under a desk or table, away from windows, glass, brick walls and chimneys. • Outside: stand away from buildings, trees, telephones and electrical lines. • On the road: drive away from under-passes/over-passes; stop in a safe area; stay in your vehicle. • In an office building: stay next to a pillar or column, or under a heavy table or desk. • Stay where you are until the shaking has stopped and you are sure it is safe to move. Remain calm and stay inside during an earthquake. Most injuries during earthquakes occur when people are hit by falling debris when entering or exiting buildings. If you must go out after an earthquake, watch for fallen objects, downed electrical wires, weakened walls, bridges, roads, and sidewalks. 25-