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Emergency Preparedness

The Governor's Committee conducted a survey of Texas cities on emergency preparedness for people with disabilities. The 189 responses represented cities of all sizes. Strengths reported include coordination with the Red Cross, and many accessible shelters with TDD capabilities. Challenges reported include a need to involve people with disabilities directly in emergency planning and training efforts, and ensuring that all public awareness materials are available in alternate formats. Training for shelter management needs to include accommodations regarding service animals, attendant care, diet and medications.

Survey Results
Interaction with Community Organizations80.3%
Working 311 and 911 TDD Lines76.0%
Accessible Shelters 77.6%
Media Alerts in Visual and Verbal Means59.6%
Post-traumatic Stress Counseling59.0%
Lift Equipped Transportation59.0%
Re-evaluation of ADA Compliance post 9-11-0145.9%
Assistance with In-home Care during Emergencies42.6%
Residents with Disabilities Involved in Emergency Planning39.9%
Accessible Internet Site21.9%
Public Awareness Materials in Alternate Formats13.7%