Be aware of what you can or cannot physically do in times of emergency; it’s smart to do a quick evaluation. Here are some questions you should ask yourself:

• Can I independently shut off my utilities, such as gas, water and electricity?
• Am I able to operate a fire extinguisher?
• Do I have a clear, unobstructed path for making a quick exit… and are any large objects properly secured so they don’t get in my way?
• Can I carry my emergency evacuation kit out with me?
• Am I able to sense a gas leak?
• Do I have all of my medications handy, so that I can grab them quickly?

Often when you least expect it, a disaster strikes. It’s that element of surprise… that psychological jolt without warning… that makes it so terrifying. For someone who is physically challenged, those fears can be amplified because you sometimes face greater obstacles to escape. But if you think clearly and remain calm, you will most likely reach a place of safety. Some of these suggestions may help.

• If you are in a building and help does not immediately come, remain near the stairwell landing or elevator lobby. Rescue workers normally check all corridors and stairwells for individuals who are trapped.
• If you cannot speak loudly or you have a voice or speech impairment, carry a whistle.
• Do not use elevators if trapped in a building, unless specifically instructed to do so by emergency personnel.
• Familiarize yourself with alarm signals.
• If you suspect a fire behind a door, test it by touching it lightly with the back of your hand. If it is hot, use another route for escape.
• If you cannot get out, no one is there to help and you have no means of contact, open the blinds and flash the room lights on and off.
• After escaping, do not re-enter a building until allowed by authorities.

Helping people in times of need is a natural reaction. Sometimes it’s something we do without even thinking. But if you’re trying to assist a physically challenged individual in an emergency situation, make sure you know the proper techniques. Doing the wrong thing can be worse than doing nothing at all. Here are some important tips.

• Discuss a plan of action with disabled persons before any disaster actually takes place,
• Be a good listener… a physically challenged individual will have many good ideas about his or her survival in an emergency situation.
• Understand the magnitude of their specific needs.
• Arrange for adequate backup resources and transportation vehicles if needed… don’t try to provide all of the help yourself
• Instill a sense of confidence in the physically challenged person.
• After helping a disabled person to safety, don’t leave them alone until you’ve notified someone else in authority about their circumstances.

• For more information, please visit: www.lacity.org/dod