Being Prepared In Case of an Emergency
Being Prepared In Case of an Emergency
As much as we hate to imagine all of the worst-case scenarios that could play out, doing so can help you prepare for emergencies, which can result in less stress and better outcomes in the moment. There are many services, products, and programs available that can help you and your family be more prepared in case of an emergency, many of which have features that can specifically help families of children with special needs.
One such resource is a program called Smart 911. By creating a free profile that is linked to your phone number and/or address, the emergency dispatchers at Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office can access important information instantly when you call. For example, you can list medical conditions and precautions, such as autism, behavioral difficulties, communication deficits, allergies, and/or physical impairments. This information can help dispatchers, paramedics, fire fighters, and police officers help you and your family more effectively if an emergency arises.
If your child has autism, you may qualify for a Big Red Safety Box, a free-of-charge safety toolkit for families in need of wandering-prevention tools. These kits include:
- Educational materials and tools, including NAA’s Be REDy Booklet
- Two (2) GE Door/Window Alarms including batteries
- One (1) RoadID Personalized, Engraved Shoe ID Tag
- Five (5) Adhesive Stop Sign Visual Prompts for doors and windows
- Two (2) Safety Alert Window Clings for car or home windows
- One (1) Red Safety Alert Wristband
- One (1) Child ID Kit from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Autism Speaks has a great list of numerous other resources available for families of children, and adults, with special needs, including social stories to promote safety, and equipment to increase safety in the home and the community.
AWAARE has additional resources and items available for families to download and purchase, as well as free Social Stories you can personalize to educate your child on how to handle emergency situations.
The Red Cross has a booklet on preparing for disasters for people with special needs, which gives practical tips and guidelines for emergency and natural disaster preparedness.
It is important to think about the unique characteristics and needs of your family and child, in order to plan accordingly and be as prepared as possible for an emergency. Having a kit and supplies ready and having practiced escape routes and evacuation plans provides a little extra peace of mind that, when an emergency happens, you’re prepared.
Author: Krista Flack, MS OTR/L
