Why Not Make a Plan?

Why are people with disabilities so reluctant to create a plan for responding to disaster? We have the greatest likelihood of not surviving a disaster simply because we are disabled and must contend with that as well as whatever happens during an emergency, so why don’t we try to even the playing field by developing a plan to reduce the impact disaster might have on us? Is it because we are afraid to face our vulnerability? To me, this just doesn’t make sense. Maybe there is something to be said for being an “ounce of prevention” personality, but I want to know that I’ve got the edge that will help me survive in the event something disastrous happens.

When I think about disaster planning, I do not think about fear first. I think about having a better chance to stay safe, stay calm, and stay in control. A plan does not stop an emergency from happening. But it can help you know what to do when everything feels confusing. That matters for anyone. It matters even more for people with disabilities, because many of us depend on tools, people, services, medication, transportation, or routines that may not be easy to replace in a hurry.

Perhaps it’s the fear about how much it will cost to prepare? But it seems to me that doing nothing is far worse! There are so many things you can do to make a difference that don’t cost anything. For instance, writing down the contact information for the services you need. Or perhaps it’s collecting a few extra supplies to have on hand, or even designating a spot where you’ll meet up with family in the event you have to evacuate. If you can put a few dollars into those items you are especially dependent upon, then so much the better, but not doing anything at all leaves you at the mercy of whatever wind is blowing at the moment.

Those low-cost steps are a good place to start. A written list can help when your phone battery dies or when you are too stressed to remember a number. You might list your doctor, pharmacy, personal care worker, transportation provider, family, and close friends. Keep a copy in your wallet, near your bed, and with a trusted person. If you use assistive devices, write down the model names, charger types, and any replacement parts you may need. If you use medical supplies or medicine, keep a list of what you use, how often you use it, and where you get it.

Maybe you feel it will take too long to make a plan. But don’t you find time for the things that are important to you, and shouldn’t this be important? I’m convinced that disastrous events are occurring at a much greater rate than they have in the past, and now is the time to think about how a disaster might affect you and what you can do to lessen the impact.

A plan does not have to be long or fancy. It can be a few pages or even just a simple checklist. Start with the basics:

How will you get warnings and updates if the power is out?
How will you leave your home if you need to evacuate?
Who will you call first?
Where will you go if your home is not safe?
What do you need to bring with you right away?
Who knows where your plan is stored?

If you use a wheelchair, walker, cane, oxygen, service animal, communication device, or other support, your plan should include those needs. Think about what happens if elevators stop working, if roads are blocked, or if a shelter is not fully accessible. Think about your backup options too. If one route, one device, or one person is not available, what is your next step? These are the kinds of questions that can make a real difference when seconds count.

Creating a plan isn’t hard to do. Disability Network/Lakeshore is available to assist you in designing your plan. We have packets that will help you identify the areas you are especially vulnerable in and suggestions for how you might design your plan. Please, contact us at 616-396-5326 and ask for a copy of your emergency preparedness planning kit.

It can also help to practice your plan. Walk through it in your mind or talk it over with family or friends. If you have a support person, make sure they know what you want them to do. If you live alone, think about who can check on you. If you use text messages better than phone calls, say so in your plan. If you need extra time to get out, build that time in now instead of waiting for an emergency to remind you.

For some people, the hardest part is not the planning itself. It is starting. If that sounds like you, begin with one small step today. Write down one phone number. Put one flashlight where you can find it. Set aside one day’s worth of extra medicine if you can. Choose one safe meeting place for your family. Small steps add up. They can turn worry into action.

There is also peace of mind in knowing you are not doing this alone. If you feel stuck, confused, or overwhelmed, ask for help. That is what support is for. DNL serves people with disabilities in Ottawa and Allegan counties, and our services are free. We can help you think through your needs and make a plan that fits your life. Call us at (616) 396-5326 if you want help getting started.

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442 Century Lane
Holland, MI 49423

Services

Advocacy

Assistance Animals

Information & Referral

Peer Support

Emergency Readiness

Social Security Disability

Social Participation

Veterans

Skills Development

Employment

Transition

Nursing Home Transition

Youth Services