December, 2004
Wow! I certainly felt that earthquake over by The Pinnacles the other night. Just a friendly reminder of what might happen in California at any given time. It also should be a reminder that being prepared for emergencies can reduce the fear, panic, and inconvenience that surrounds a disaster. There are many articles from FEMA and the Red Cross that will help people with disabilities prepare for the aftermath of a natural disaster such as an earthquake or flood. Here are a few:
Have disaster supplies on hand. Some recommended items include: a flashlight with extra batteries, a portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, a first aid kit and manual, emergency food and water, non-electric can opener, essential medicines, cash and credit cards, and sturdy shoes. Maintain a list of the following important items and store it with the emergency supplies. Give a copy to another family member and a friend or neighbor.
- Special equipment and supplies, e.g., hearing aid batteries
- Current prescription names and dosages
- Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of doctors and pharmacist
- Detailed information about the specifications of your medication regime
Contact your local emergency information management office now. Many local emergency management offices maintain registers of people with disabilities so they can be located and assisted quickly in a disaster. It might be a good idea to give them a list of any medicines and life assisting devices that you use. Know the location and availability of more than one facility if you are dependent on a dialysis machine or other life-sustaining equipment or treatment. Remember public transportation may be disrupted for a period of time.
Have a plan for getting out of your home or building (ask your family or friends for assistance, if necessary). Also, plan two evacuation routes because some roads may be closed or blocked in a disaster. People with disabilities have the same choices as other community residents about whether to evacuate their homes and where to go when an emergency threatens. Listen to the advice of local officials. Decide whether it is better to leave the area, stay with a friend or go to a public shelter. Each of these decisions requires planning and preparation.
If you have access to the web I would also recommend checking out http://www.redcross.org/images/pdfs/preparedness/A4497.pdf and http://www.jik.com/disaster.html. These are excellent informational sites and will help anyone develop an emergency plan.
It's been over 16 years since the Loma Prieta earthquake caused extensive local damage and disrupted so many lives. Many residents will never forget that day. Many others have come to the Santa Cruz area since then and have little inkling of what might happen. Hopefully this will help people get prepared should another natural disaster occur in our area.
Hope everyone had a wonderful year and that these holidays bring joy and love to all.
Remember - Disability is a random event that can occur in any life, at any moment.
- Michael Bradshaw, Central Coast Center for Independent Living