Accessibility and Assistance in an Emergency

Tell your family, neighbours, friends and/or support worker how they can assist you during an emergency.

Learn how to create a 72 hour emergency kit. Remember your pets!

Assistive devices: canes, walkers, hearing aids, breathing apparatus, etc.
Prescription eyewear and footwear
Extra medications and vitamin supplements
Copies of prescriptions
Extra dentures (if required) and cleaner
Personal papers and identification
Important names and telephone numbers (family members, doctors, case worker, neighbours, building superintendent etc.)

Evacuation route without elevator service (if applicable)
Backup power supply for essential medical equipment
Keep a flashlight and cell phone handy to signal for help
Establish a self-help network to assist and check on you during an emergency
Enroll in a medical alert program that will signal for help if you are immobilized
Keep a list of facilities that provide life-sustaining equipment or treatment
Keep a list of medical conditions and treatment
If you live in an apartment, advise property management that you may need assistance staying in your apartment or that you must be evacuated if there is a power outage

Minimum three day supply of bottled water and food for your animal
Portable water and food bowls
Paper towels and can opener
Medications with a list identifying reason (e.g., medical condition), dosage, frequency and contact information of prescribing veterinarian
Medical records including vaccinations
Leash and harness (if required)
Muzzle (if required)
Blanket and favourite toy
Plastic bags
Up to date identification tag with your phone number and the name/phone number of your veterinarian (microchipping is also recommended)
Current photo of your service animal in case they get lost or separated from you
Copy of license (if required)

Ask first if the person needs or wants your help.
Allow the person to identify how best to assist them.
Do not touch the person, their service animal and/or their assistive device/equipment without their permission.
Follow instructions posted on special needs equipment and/or assistive device during an emergency.
Avoid attempts to lift, support or assist in moving someone unless you are familiar with safe techniques.
Never administer any food or liquids to an unconscious or unresponsive person.
Be aware that some people who have disabilities may request that you use latex-free gloves to reduce spread of infection to them.
Ask the person who requires assistance if areas of their body have reduced sensation and if they need you to check those areas for injuries after a disaster.

Page last updated on September 08, 2022

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