What happens if the electricity goes out?

What happens if the electricity goes out and you’re dependent on oxygen? What do you do if this or other emergencies such as flooding, hurricanes or tornadoes strike your area and you live with a disability?

Recently the chairman of the National Council on Disability (NCD) testified before the US House of Representatives on three main ways to improve the nation’s preparedness and response for people with disabilities during an emergency. One of the key points is that people with disabilities must be involved in emergency planning.

You are your own best advocate; here are two things you can do to alert authorities in your local area that, should an emergency arise, you need assistance.

1. If you have not done this already, call your state’s assistance line, often 211 (or check with your local operator for the number), and tell them you want to register in case of a disaster or other emergency. All states have a form for that information, which will ensure you are known to your local EMS, fire, police, et al if an occasion arises; they will help move you to a safer location with any durable medical equipment you might need to live/survive, medications, etc.
2. Be sure that your local power company has you “red flagged” IF you depend on electricity for any life-sustaining equipment, including: oxygen, CPAP, BIPAP, ventilators, powerchairs, LifeLine on your telephone, etc. Most companies require a physician-signed statement annually (in case you move).

For more information, visit http://www.disability.gov/emergency_preparedness/news_%26_events.