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FAMILY CARE & RECOVERY The best and safest arrangements for special needs family members may be to bring them with you when you evacuate. CARING FOR THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Making plans for your loved ones who have special needs should be considered in this time of planning. Elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, medical complcations or mobility challenges and pets should be kept in mind when making your hurricane evacuation route. Notify your health agency with details of your location during a hurricane and when care can be re-established. If you require respirators or other electric-dependent medical equipment, you should make prior medical arrangements with your physician. If you require oxygen, check with your supplier about emergency plans. If you evacuate, remember to take medications, written instructions regarding your care, your walker, wheelchair, cane or specialized equipment, along with your bedding. Some people with disabilities and elderly citizens may have special needs that hinder them from being able to leave their homes during emergencies. Government and emergency personnel recognize these needs, however, due to their increasing numbers, it is almost impossible to provide aid for everyone. You can be a part of a care program to offer assistance to those family members who cannot help themselves by: Educating and physically helping them prepare their homes and property for emergencies such as hurricanes. Helping them shop for necessary supplies. Providing a list of friends and family members who have agreed to help in emergency situations. If you do not evacuate, keep a list of the names and phone numbers of friends or family, so you can make quick arrangements to stay with them in the event of a power interruption. Also, locate the nearest hospital that can help provide emergency power for your life support equipment. 16

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