Stay prepared for any emergency with these tips.
Natural disasters are challenging and frightening for everyone, but they can pose unique risks for individuals with hearing loss. Being prepared is crucial to ensuring safety during unexpected emergencies such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods. This blog post provides a few essential safety tips for hearing loss to help navigate the potential of natural disasters. Consider talking to your audiologist for specialized recommendations they may have for you based on your location and natural disasters possible for your area.
Sign Up for Emergency Texts
One of the first steps in disaster preparation is to sign up for emergency text alerts. Many local governments and national agencies offer services that send instant notifications about severe weather, disasters, and other emergencies directly to your mobile device. These services are valuable as they provide real-time, accessible updates that do not rely on audible alarms or broadcasts. Some phone applications also have the option for severe weather notifications. These are two great ways to ensure you’re notified about any impending inclement weather or severe storm warnings.
Stock Up on Batteries for Assistive Devices
For those who use hearing aids or other battery-operated assistive hearing devices, having an ample supply of batteries is a great way to be prepared for instances like power outages. If your devices require different types of batteries, make sure to include a variety of battery sizes in your emergency kit (include batteries to operate flashlights and portable radios as well). Additionally, consider investing in a portable charging station or solar charger to keep your devices functional during prolonged power outages. If you have rechargeable assistive hearing devices, you may want to consider investing in a small generator or have a backup device that is battery operated on standby.
Invest in a Weather Radio with Text Readout
Another valuable tool for individuals with hearing loss is a weather radio equipped with a text display. These radios provide vital weather updates and alerts in text format, ensuring critical information is accessible. Look for a weather radio that offers both visual and vibrating alerts to ensure multiple ways to be alerted of important information.
Carry Communication Preference Cards
In the chaos of a natural disaster, communicating your needs effectively can be challenging. Carrying cards that clearly state your communication preferences can be helpful. These cards can include information on how best to communicate with you, such as through written notes, sign language, or reading lips, and can also alert helpers to the fact that you have hearing loss. This simple tool can make interactions with emergency personnel and volunteers clearer and more efficient.
Prepare a Visual and Vibrating Alert System
It can be helpful to set up alert systems that use visual signals (like flashing lights) and vibrations. Many devices are designed specifically for individuals with hearing loss, including smoke detectors and alarm clocks that use strobe lights or bed shakers. Invest in an alert system that will help you understand weather alerts immediately.
Maintain a Written Emergency Plan
Having a well-thought-out emergency plan written down and easily accessible is important for being prepared during an emergency. This plan should include evacuation routes, communication plans, and safe meeting places. Make sure to share this plan with household members, family, friends, and neighbors who can assist during a disaster if needed. You may also want to have a running list of what devices you need, how they’re charged or supplied with energy, and keep a tally of chargers and batteries you’d need in case of an emergency.
Secure and Waterproof Your Assistive Devices
During a disaster, it’s important to protect your hearing devices from damage. Keep them in a waterproof case when not in use, especially if there is a risk of flooding. Additionally, have a smaller, portable case that you can take with you quickly in case of an evacuation. This case should also contain cleaning tools and extra supplies like wax guards and drying capsules to maintain device functionality.
Join a Support Network
Being part of a community or network that understands your specific needs can provide emotional and practical support during emergencies. Many communities have support groups and organizations for individuals with hearing loss. These groups can offer resources and assistance, from helping you set up your emergency alerts to providing information on local services tailored for individuals with hearing impairments. By following these safety tips for hearing loss during a natural disaster, you can be better prepared for emergencies. If you have any specific questions, reach out to your audiologist for help in crafting a plan. For more tips on hearing loss, check out the CapTel blog
