2009 Annual Conference of AT Act Programs Emergency Response Overview Kelly Rouba EAD & Associates, LLC Emergency Management & Special Needs Consultants

PURPOSE To explore the incremental steps that Assistive Technology programs and disability advocates can take to get involved in disaster preparedness and response, especially at the local level. To explore the incremental steps that Assistive Technology programs and disability advocates can take to get involved in disaster preparedness and response, especially at the local level.

PreparednessResponse Small-Scale Distribute Preparedness brochures for individuals with disabilities Coordinate with local emergency managers to provide AT Large-Scale Conduct Shelter Surveys Other options… Coordinate with state emergency managers to provide AT

QUESTIONS/COMMENTS Does your organization have the ability to help in times of emergency? Does your organization have the ability to help in times of emergency?  If so, can the company develop a program that serves as a model for similar agencies? What are possible legal issues? How can they be overcome? What are possible legal issues? How can they be overcome?  How can you obtain personal health information quickly and legally?  HIPAA

QUESTIONS/COMMENTS How do you connect with EM officials and foster those relationships? How do you connect with EM officials and foster those relationships?  Brown bag sessions  Learn their lingo and culture  Help to fill gaps/voids in system  Volunteer time Understand what you are responding to in an emergency. All disasters are different. Understand what you are responding to in an emergency. All disasters are different.  Know what information you need to be effective in your response?  What technology will consumers in the community need?