Ready to Roll is designed to assist in preserving the health and safety of individuals with spinal cord injury or disease (SCI/D) in times of uncertainty and upheaval due to natural or human-caused disasters through advanced planning, along with the preparation of professionals and local agencies.
Being equipped both intellectually and physically for unexpected events can save lives, lessen the emotional impact and facilitate a quicker adjustment in times of transition.
Sponsored by:
- Medication & supplies
- Equipment
- Support or assistance
- Transportation
- Dietary restrictions
- Service and non-service animals
- Contact your local emergency information management office to find out if there is an emergency plan in place that addresses your needs
- Does the local government or agencies offer preparedness supplies or guidance?
- Do your local fire or rescue teams know how to assist you in an emergency?
- Are identified shelter or evacuation centers accessible?
Are accessible port-a-pots an option if site restrooms are not accessible? - Self-advocate if these resources are insufficient
| Start with the basics – what you need to live each day | Multi-tool |
| Emergency documents (emergency plan, medication lists, family and doctor phone numbers, insurance info, medical equipment specifics, etc) laminated or in Ziploc bag |
Whistle |
| Medication and medical equipment (wheelchair, cushion, transfer aids) |
Lighter or waterproof matches |
| Water | Extra glasses or contact lenses/supplies |
| Catheters, ostomy and wound care supplies | Moist towelettes |
| Cash | Blanket |
| Non-perishable food | Battery powered or hand-crank radio |
| Hand sanitizer & soap | Hearing aids and extra batteries |
| First aid kit | Duct tape |
| Flashlight/headlight | Ziploc and garbage bags |
| Patch kit | Pen and paper |
| Toothbrush/toothpaste | Extra batteries |
| Change of clothes | Pet supplies |
| Chargers for equipment and phones (consider battery or hand-cranked) |
Learn more about what to include in your kit at ready.gov/kit |
Who will help?
- Identify friends, family, caregivers, fire department, police department and others who may be able to assist you in an emergency
- Speak to them about your emergency plans, needs, equipment, etc.
- Record their contact information on your emergency plan and share a copy with each individual
- Speak to your employer about your plan and needs if an emergency occurs while you are at work
- Identify friends, family, caregivers, fire department, police department and others who may be able to assist you in an emergency
Who do you need to reach?
- Develop a communication plan with your family and friends
- Identify someone out-of-town who may not be in the impacted region to be a part of your communication plan
- Determine how you will communicate (text, emails and social media may be easier in an emergency than phone calls)
- Record all contact information on your emergency plan and share a copy with each individual
Where will you meet?
- Select emergency meeting places for your family to reunite
- Make sure the locations are accessible
- Indoor – for tornado, hurricane and other storms be sure to select a windowless, sturdy spot
- In your local area – if you have to leave your home but can remain close consider a neighbor’s house, corner or other nearby feature
- Outside your neighborhood – a family member or friend’s home, shopping center, community center, etc
- Outside of your city – in the event the city is evacuated determine one location to meet and ensure everyone has the address and phone number
Evacuation considerations:
- Make sure everyone knows where the emergency kit is located
- Address the needs of your service animals or pets
- Determine the best accessible transportation option and alternatives if the first choice is not available
- Activate your communication plan
What other information may I need?
- Contact and medical information for all household members
- Specific information about your disability/care that medical personnel should know
- Work, school, caregiver, childcare contact information
- Wheelchair/medical equipment supplier contact info
- Doctor, insurance, veterinarian details
- Utility (gas, electric, water) numbers
- Transportation alternatives
Learn more about developing a plan at ready.gov/plan
You Are Ready to Roll!
Best Practices & Checklists
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| Ready to Roll Guidance Start your preparation by downloading our READY plan. |
Emergency Plan Form Keep track of vital information you may need in case of emergency. |
Ready to Roll Kit Checklist Suggestions for your emergency preparedness kit. Customize for your specific needs! |
Evacuating to a Shelter
Learn how shelters work and understand your rights and responsibilities.
Pets and Service Animals
In a disaster, pets and service animals need extra help and should always be a part of the plan.
Power Outages
Learn about local power outages and how you can do to prepare in advance.
Wheelchair Prep
Take inventory of your wheelchair(s) and supplies. Pack a “wheelchair go bag”.
Your Local Resources
Know what your local risks are and use the resources and organizations available in your area.
Videos / Podcasts
Disaster Preparation
Prepare and plan with a well-thought-out list. Pre-pack what you can. You may not remember essentials later.
Disaster Recovery Preparation
Listen in for advice and best practices on how to prepare for and implement a successful disaster recovery plan.
Additional Resources
- Learn more about what to include in your kit at ready.gov/kit
- Learn more about developing a plan at ready.gov/plan
- Sustain Our Abilities Disaster Prep Presentation
- Red Cross
For more information contact Abby Ross, aross@unitedspinal.org.