All residents, including those with special needs are encouraged to develop an individualized disaster /evacuation plan. Preparedness is a responsibility promoted robustly by the county on all levels – starting with the individual to the local, state and federal government. It is vital to prepare for your own safety and welfare.
It is important that our most vulnerable residents and their caregivers take the time now to plan and practice evacuation. If your special needs requires additional planning and preparation, consider the following:
- Create a network of neighbors, relatives, friends and coworkers to aid you in an emergency. Discuss your needs and ensure everyone knows how to operate necessary equipment.
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Make prior arrangements with your physician or check with your oxygen supplier about emergency plans for those on respirators or other electric powered medical equipment. Be sure to have electrical back up for any medical equipment. Most shelters will not have generator power; special needs shelters will have limited space available.
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Maintain a two week supply of such items as dressings, nasal cannulas and suction catheters.
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Maintain a two week supply of medications, both prescription and non-prescription.
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Keep copies of your medical records and physician name and telephone number.
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Maintain a two week supply of items necessary for your service animal.
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If you have a caregiver, i.e., home health aide, home care nurse, or other paid provider, discuss your personalized evacuation plan with them.
Disasters can happen at anytime and affect anyone. Whether the disaster is predictable, such as a hurricane, or happens without warning, such as a terrorist attack, it is important for Nassau County residents to have an at-home emergency kit as well as a shelter kit. People with special needs should consider additional personal items when compiling both a home emergency kit and a shelter kit. This checklist is intended to be a quick list of general and additional items for either “sheltering-in-place” (at home) or for a “grab-and-go” shelter kit (to be taken with you to a shelter). Home disaster kits contain enough items for a longer period of time (several days to a week). Shelter kits contain only essential items for a shorter period of time (12 to 72 hours). While not comprehensive, this is meant to be a starting point. It is recommended that this checklist be reviewed regularly and according to any changes in your needs.
Additional supplies to consider based on your special needs:
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Shelters If you are evacuating to a shelter, before you leave your home:
*Remember to listen to local radio and TV stations for emergency information and evacuation instructions.
Only service animals are allowed in Nassau County shelters. If you bring your service animal with you, be sure to bring water, food, medicine, toys and other necessities. Since pets are not allowed in shelters, Nassau County is taking steps to care for your pet during an evacuation by establishing shelters just for pets. For more information concerning your pet during an emergency, contact the Pet Safe Coalition at 676-0808. Preparing at Home
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