Disasters can impact everyone, but certain communities are at higher in the event of an emergency. These communities include individuals with disabilities, elderly, low-income, non-English speaking, families with young children and travellers.
Why are these communities at greater risk?
- Lack of resources: Limited access to essential resources like emergency supplies, transportation, and safe housing.
- Communication Barriers: Receiving timely and accurate information can be a major challenge. Without clear communication, they may not be aware of evacuation orders or safety instructions, putting their lives in danger.
- Mobility and Health Issues: Elderly and individuals with disabilities may struggle to evacuate quickly or access emergency services. Their physical limitations can leave them isolated and in need of immediate assistance.
- Financial Constraints: Low-income individuals often lack the financial means to prepare for a disaster such as securing insurance or purchasing emergency supplies.
- Unfamiliar with environment: Being unfamiliar with an area can limit knowledge of evacuation routes, shelter locations, and where to find essential supplies during an emergency.
- Child mobility: Families with babies and young children may experience mobility challenges, as young children may be unable to walk, follow instructions, or require safety seating in vehicles.
How you can help
By connecting and offering your assistance to an at-risk person can make all the difference.
Ensure that you exchanged the below contact details so they can reach out if assistance is required:
- Name
- Phone number
- Address
- Emergency contacts
Regularly checking in, especially after a weather event, is a valuable way to offer support and ensure the safety of those around you.