Emergency Preparedness

Preparing for Emergencies

Emergency preparedness is especially important for families with children who have disabilities, as their needs may require additional planning and support during a crisis. Being prepared helps ensure safety, reduce stress, and maintain continuity of care when emergencies occur. By taking proactive steps—such as creating personalized plans, organizing essential supplies, and understanding available community resources—families can feel more confident and equipped to respond effectively to unexpected situations while supporting their child’s unique needs.

Disability rights are never put on hold during disasters. Any programs or services offered to the public in an emergency must be accessible and inclusive, ensuring that people with disabilities can fully participate and receive the same support as everyone else. In the United States,  laws require that emergency programs and services be accessible and nondiscriminatory.