Emergencies come in many shapes and forms. Natural disasters, such as weather-related events; human-caused disasters, such as industrial accidents or terroristic events; and public health emergencies, such as pandemics and other crises, can disrupt mobility, medical care, communication, and access to vital support. Emergencies can be stressful for anyone, but having a physical disability increases the need for adequate emergency preparedness plans. Planning ahead helps ensure that assistive devices, medications, power sources, and support networks remain available when normal routines are interrupted. By creating personalized plans, building an emergency kit, creating a support network, and identifying accessible evacuation routes and shelter, individuals with physical disability or mobility limitations can stay safer, more independent, and better equipped to navigate disasters. Emergency preparedness not only protects lives but also strengthens resilience for individuals, families, and communities.

Below are some things to consider when creating an emergency preparedness plan. Keep in mind that individual needs do vary, and plans may have to be adjusted regularly depending on your specific needs.

Create a personalized plan and keep it in an accessible place.

Things to consider:

• Identify your specific needs during an emergency.
• Mobility assistance devices such as wheelchairs, scooters, chargers for power chairs, etc.
• List of all medical devices that require power (don’t forget the chargers!)
• List of current medications (frequency and dose), necessary medical treatments, and healthcare providers’ contact information
• Communication needs
• Service animals or pets
• Personal care assistants and care partners
• Transportation requirements
• Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on phones.
• Local shelter policies

Build an emergency kit.

What to include:

• One week of non-perishable food and water
• First-aid kit
• 1-2 weeks of medication (plus copies of prescriptions) and medical supplies
• Backup batteries or power banks for medical and mobility devices
• Extra charging cables, outlets, and portable chargers
• Copies of medical records, care instructions, and insurance cards/policies, identification
• A list of healthcare providers, care partners, and emergency contacts
• Batteries for communication devices
• Backup mobility devices
• Supplies for service animals and copies of vaccination records
• Emergency weather alert radio
• Low-technology communication boards or alternative forms of communication

Create a support network.

Identify at least three people who can help you before, during, and after an emergency. Share your personalized plan and make sure they know:

• How to contact you (without the use of phones, as they might not work during an emergency)
• How to help with your mobility or communication needs
• Where your emergency kit and supplies are
• How to operate essential devices or equipment

Consider exchanging keys with a trusted person so they can access your home in case you cannot leave your home during an emergency.

Plan accessible evacuation routes and shelter.

• Identify exits from your home, work, and other places you frequent
• Identify accessible shelters in your area and know how to get to them.
• Register with your local emergency shelters/registries if you don’t have an emergency contact.
• If you drive, keep your vehicle fueled or charged.
• If you rely on paratransit, know their emergency procedures.
• Sign up for accessible local alert systems.

Disability-Focused Emergency Preparedness Resources

To visit any of these resources, click the highlighted text after each bullet point

Federal & National Resources

• Ready.gov – People with Disabilities Guide for personal emergency planning, tips for accessibility, and support networks.
  • Disability Toolkit Printable toolkit to help prepare emergency kits and personalized plans.
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – Office of Disability Integration & Coordination (ODIC). Resources to help ensure inclusive emergency management.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities Guidance on medical, mobility, and communication considerations during emergencies.
• ADA National Network (ADANN) – Emergency Preparedness Information on rights, shelter accessibility, and planning for individuals with disabilities.

Disability-Specific Resources

• Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation – Emergency Preparedness for People with Paralysis Tips for wheelchair users, mobility devices, and medical care during disasters.
• Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies. Advocacy and resources to ensure disability-inclusive emergency planning.
• United Spinal Association – Emergency Preparedness Guide: Focused guidance for individuals with spinal cord injuries and mobility limitations.

Local & Regional Guidance

• Example: Texas Ready – People with Disabilities Local preparedness tips, including emergency kits and shelter access.

Technology & Communication Tools

• FEMA App – Real-time alerts, shelter maps, and preparedness tips.
• Medisafe/MyMedSchedule – Track medications for emergency kits.
• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) – Alerts on your mobile device.

Take the Stress Out of Emergencies

We get it – emergencies can be stressful events. With proper planning, you can prevent emergencies from becoming even more stressful.

• Visualize your emergency plan, including evacuation routes, use of mobility devices, and communication with care partners or family.
• Practice scenarios by rehearsing what to do in different situations, such as power outages, severe weather, and transportation disruptions.
• Develop coping strategies by identifying calming techniques that work for you, such as deep breathing, meditation, or grounding exercises.
• Stay informed using trusted sources for alerts, but limit exposure to constant news updates that can increase anxiety.
• Monitor your mental health before, during, and after an emergency, and seek professional help if needed.

Over the next few weeks, challenge yourself and those around you to create an emergency preparedness plan!