Emergency Evacuation Preparedness: Taking Responsibility For Your Safety A Guide For People with Disabilities and Other Activity Limitations

Master the Skill of Giving Quick Information on How Best to Assist You

Be prepared to quickly give emergency responders critical information on how they can assist you without causing injury. Take charge and practice how to quickly explain to people how best to assist you. Be prepared to give clear, specific and concise instructions and directions to rescue personnel. Determine how much detail is needed. Be prepared with additional instructions if more details are needed. You know your abilities and limitations and the best way that someone can assist you or ways in which you can assist them. Practice giving these instructions clearly and quickly, not in four paragraphs but a few quick phrases, using the least amount of words possible, for example:

• Take medication from top drawer of desk by window.

• Take my communication device from that table. I am hard of hearing.

• Take my manual wheelchair .

• The traditional "fire fighter's carry" is hazardous for me because of my respiratory condition. Carry me by …..

• I can manage steps independently, carry my other crutch and walk in front of me. 

• I’m blind, let me take your left arm above the elbow and I’ll follow you out.

• I need to hang on to you, I have poor balance, but I can walk steps.

• You have to carry me out, wheelchair user evacuation chairs are hung at the top of “stairway two, north end” and “stairway three, south end.”

Consider using a carry-with-you preprinted message. Customize a message for yourself, for example:

• I’m deaf, do not speak, I use American Sign Language (ASL). Use gestures or write instructions using simple words.

• I cannot speak, but I do hear and understand.  I communicate using an augmentative communication device.  I can point to simple pictures or key words, you will find a communication sheet in my wallet.

• I may have difficulty understanding what you are telling me, so speak slowly and use simple words.

• I have a psychiatric disability.  In an emergency I may become confused.  Help me find a quiet corner and I should be fine in about 10 minutes.

• I have a panic condition.  If I panic and appear very anxious, speak to me calmly and slowly. Be patient. Ask me if I need my medication and I will direct you.  You may need to ask me more than once. Please stay with me until I calm down.

• Diesel exhaust can kill me. Do not put me in or near idling emergency vehicles.