Emergency Preparedness: Special Needs of Residents

Set aside time during resident move-in orientation to consider any special needs of the resident. For example, if a resident has a mobility disability and may need help leaving the home in case of a fire, make sure that others are aware and know they should help; designate several specific people to do so and make sure they know how to safely get the resident – and their equipment, if possible – out of danger. Or, if a resident has insulin that needs to be refrigerated, have a plan in case the power goes out and the fridge is not working.