Disaster Planning for Special Needs

In a disaster, people with special medical needs have extra concerns. Take the following steps if you or your family members have special medical needs:

• Have an extra three-day supply of any medical supplies you use, such as bandages, ostomy bags or syringes.
• For all medical equipment requiring electrical power such as beds, breathing equipment or infusion pumps - check with your medical supply company and get information regarding a backup power source such as a battery or generator.
• If you use oxygen, have an emergency supply (enough for at least a three day period).
• Oxygen tanks should be securely braced so they do not fall over. Call your medical supply company regarding bracing instructions.
• Prepare copies of vital medical papers such as insurance cards and power of attorney.
• Store extra batteries for hearing aids, implants, TTY and light phone signaler.
• If hearing impaired, determine how you will communicate with emergency personnel if there is no interpreter or if you don't have your hearing aids. Store paper and pens for this purpose.
• Service animals may become confused, frightened or disoriented during and after a disaster. Keep them confined or securely leashed or harnessed. A leash/harness is an important item for managing a nervous or upset animal.

Preparing Your Medication

• Always have at least a three-day supply of all your medications. In some emergencies, such as an influenza pandemic, you may need to prepare for a week or more.
• Store your medications in one location in their original containers.
• Have a list of all your medications: name of medication, does, frequency, and the name of the prescribing doctor.

Special Needs Program

Santa Rosa County Special Needs Program is a voluntary program that should be considered by individuals who have no alternative than a public shelter or, need transportation to a shelter. The Emergency Management Division recommends using this program only as a "last resort" and individuals with special needs should consider sheltering with relatives or friends. Find more information and apply for the program online.