ADA Checklist for Emergency Shelters

C. Getting Started

Individuals conducting the surveys need not be experienced in evaluating facilities for accessibility. The checklist provides guidance on how to complete the survey and will prompt the user to check key elements. The checklist pages also provide space for notes and other key information. The checklist is designed to prompt the user to check key features by asking questions about sizes, sloped surfaces, and availability of accessible features; and in some areas, it suggests alternatives if a physical barrier is identified. By following the directions provided for filling out the checklist, staff can identify accessible shelters and develop information needed to implement temporary and permanent accessibility modifications.

An evaluation of shelter accessibility should focus on those areas of the facility that may be used for providing shelter in an emergency. These include areas where people are dropped off by a bus, van, or car; the parking area; the entrance to the shelter; pedestrian routes (both exterior and interior); sleeping, eating, information, and recreational areas; and toilet rooms.

Before shelter accessibility is evaluated, it is useful for staff to review the instructions for filling out the checklist and become familiar with the questions. It is also helpful to practice taking measurements, photographs, and recording information. On the day of the survey, it is helpful to first become familiar with certain areas before starting to record information. Upon arrival at the proposed shelter, first find the areas where people will disembark from vehicles, both passenger drop-off and loading zones as well as parking areas. Next find the entrances to the shelter areas that will be used during an evacuation. If possible, take an identifying “location” photograph that shows the name of the facility and the address so that other photographs can be identified correctly. When inside the building, locate the areas where people are likely to register, sleep, and eat. Locate the toilet rooms that serve the shelter area. It is also a good idea to locate any areas used for telephones, food distribution, and medical services.