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Rachel Cowan, Ph.D. of UAB, explains how to help a disabled neighbor in dangerous weather conditions.
Rachel Cowan, Ph.D. of UAB, explains how to help a disabled neighbor in dangerous weather conditions. During the inclement season, families plan what to do if there is a threat of inclement weather. When you make your plans, University of Alabama at BirminghamRachel Cowan, Ph.D. wants to remind you to remember your disabled neighbors.
In the event of a tornado or flooding, people with physical disabilities may need help getting to safety.
“When making plans for your household for severe weather, interview people near you and identify those who might need help or who might be at risk in severe weather,” said Cowan, professor. assistant to the UAB. Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Once you’ve identified these people, Cowan recommends approaching them and asking if they would need help in the event of a weather threat.
“It’s always important to ask the person if you can help them,” she said. “If they say yes, ask them how they would like you to help them in various scenarios. ”
Create a plan
The first and most vital step in weather preparation is to create a plan with your neighbor. Cowan recommends locating the closest evacuation shelter to your residences and asking how you can help them get to the designated shelter.
“If your neighbor is in a wheelchair, it’s important to make sure the nearest shelter is wheelchair accessible,” Cowan said.
A battery-powered weather radio is recommended for each household, in case the power is cut and you cannot access the information. A radio that includes flashing lights is a great resource for the hearing impaired.
When formulating your plan, Cowan recommends including:
- Agreement on how and when to check in with each other
- A list of emergency contacts
- A list of all medications in case medical assistance is required
Cowan also suggests that, if a wheelchair is used, a demonstration of how to use the chair be performed.
“A guided tour – before bad weather hits – on how to properly operate a wheelchair is the best solution so that, when trying to get to safety quickly, you know how to best help your neighbor and you won’t have to spend time trying to learn when time might be of the utmost importance.
During the crisis
In case of bad weather, be sure to follow the plan. If a neighbor asks to be warned about bad weather, it is important to do so well in advance.
“If your neighbor has asked for help getting to their safe place, or needs transportation to a shelter, make sure you don’t wait too long to help them, so you have time to get to your safe place, ”Cowan said. .
After the crisis
Once the severe weather has passed and the green light has been given by the appropriate authorities, it is important to follow up with the neighbor to make sure they are safe.
“If your neighbor is having trouble controlling their body temperature, electricity may be essential for them,” Cowan said. “If there is a power outage, they may need help moving to a nearby hotel or a friend’s house where they can better control their temperature.”
Depending on the situation, follow-ups can be useful to make sure everyone is healthy and safe.
“Actions taken before, during and after a crisis could save a life,” said Cowan. “Remember to watch your neighbors and, if you wish, offer to help them during a serious weather crisis. “
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