Every home should have an emergency plan, that the entire household is familiar with, to be used in the event of an emergency. If you or another household member has limited mobility or a physical disability, there will be specific needs that must be addressed in your emergency plan. This will ensure that everyone stays safe, calm, and knows exactly what to do if disaster strikes.
Factors To Consider
Mobility
If you or a member of your household has mobility issues, there are a number of factors to consider to ensure the safety of your entire household in the event of an emergency. To begin with, if you use an electric scooter or wheelchair, it’s a good idea to keep a manual wheelchair on hand for emergencies. Additionally, consider storing a backup wheelchair at your neighbours house.
If you live in a multi-level home with a home lift, you may be concerned about getting trapped on the second floor or in the lift in the event of a power outage. Luckily, most home lifts are equipped with a backup battery that will allow you to safely exit the lift even when the power cuts out.
Access
Another factor to consider when planning for emergencies is how you will get in and out of your house. Take the time to list the different exits in your home as well as mapping out the best way to reach each one. If you have limited mobility, make special note of the exits that are wheelchair friendly and do not include stairways or other areas that are not easily accessible.
If you live in a multi-level house, consider installing a mobility lift near an exit. This will allow wheelchair users, as well as any friends or family with mobility issues, to safely exit your home from any level. When choosing a home lift to install, ensure that it comes with a backup battery that allows for safe, limited operation in the event of a power outage.
When staying away from home, be sure to familiarise yourself with all exits, making note of any that may not be available to someone with mobility issues.
Communication
If you have mobility issues, it’s important to arrange for a few trusted friends or family members to check on you in an emergency when making your emergency plan. This will ensure that if your primary person cannot reach you, others will know where you are and what you may need.
In an emergency situation, there are often issues with contacting loved ones as the load on networks is too high. Sharing your emergency plan with your friends and family will ensure that someone will know exactly what you will do and where to check on you when disaster strikes, without having to contact you in the moment.
For more information on designing a disaster preparedness plan for people with disabilities or limited mobility visit http://www.disastersrus.org/mydisasters/disability/disability.pdf.
Reliable Home Lifts Queensland
Installing a home lift will ensure safe access to all areas of your home for wheelchair users as well as anyone with mobility issues. Axis Lifts are the number one lift company in Queensland. Each lift we supply and install comes with an emergency battery backup to allow for a safe exit from the lift in the event of a power outage. Contact your local home lift specialists today on 1300 002 947 for a free quote.
