Preparing Seniors and Disabled Family Members
Seniors and people with disabilities may need special consideration when preparing for a disaster. The Marin Center for Independent Living exists to assist persons with all types of disabilities to achieve their maximum level of sustainable independence as contributing, responsible and equal participants in society. Independent Living, as seen by its advocates, is a philosophy, a way of looking at disability and society, and a worldwide movement of people with disabilities who proclaim to work for self-determination, self-respect and equal opportunities.
The Marin Center for Independent Living (MCIL) is the go to source for assistance and information to help Marin’s Access and Functional Needs Community to prepare for disasters.
Please visit their website for more information
Download MCIL’s instruction booklet and workbook for their Powered & Prepared program
Powered and Prepared Webinar
Powered & Prepared: Resources and Training for People with Disabilities
Evacuation Tips
The Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority funded a comprehensive literature review called the State-of-the-Science in Wildfire Evacuation. This study showed that the leading causes of wildfire fatalities during evacuation included: extreme fire behavior, failures in alerting and communication systems, and delays in evacuee departure.
It is not possible to prevent the extreme weather conditions that lead to major wildfires. But there are several actions that can be taken to reduce risk during wildfire evacuations. Click here to learn more about how people with access and functional needs can prepare themselves to safely evacuate during a wildfire.
Additional Resources
Below are additional resources to help individuals and families with special needs plan and prepare for events such as wildfire.
- Special Populations Fire-Safe Checklist: U.S. Fire Administration’s fire safety guide for individuals with special needs to help them protect themselves and their home from fire.
- Disaster Preparedness for Seniors by Seniors: The American Red Cross booklet designed by and for older adults to prepare them for a sudden emergency.
- Disaster Preparedness for People with Disabilities: American Red Cross Disaster Services booklet with information and resources to help people with physical, visual, auditory, or cognitive disabilities design a personal disaster plan.
- Ready.gov Personal Preparedness Guide: A resource site for individuals with disabilities that gives information on necessary supplies, evacuation procedures, and how to assist pets and service animals in the event of a disaster.