Emergency Shelters and People with Disabilities
Contributed by Provi Sharpe, Director of Emergency Preparedness and Reuse Activities, MDTAP
Though we think of spring as a mild, gentle time of year, spring in the mid-Atlantic region can bring severe weather. Maryland is susceptible to a variety of weather-related emergencies. Severe thunderstorms are common in Maryland throughout the summer season. Hurricanes, flooding, tornadoes and severe winter storms occur here periodically. Even routine weather events can disrupt power and other utilities for prolonged periods.
Our region is also known for its sweltering summers. Intense heat and humidity pose a serious health risk, especially for children, the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Any of these events could cause you to go to an emergency shelter. If that happens, do you know what to expect? Do you know what to do to get the personal assistance you may need?
Quest Magazine Online’s article “How To Get Personal Care Assistance in Emergency Shelters” offers guidance on how to ensure that your personal needs are met if you are ever forced to go to an emergency shelter.
