EPAP

EPAP (Emergency Preparedness Awareness Program) is  a program aimed at making our consumers self prepared and aware of steps they can take to be ready in case of an emergency. As part of EPAP, MOCEANS offers a service in which we scan any information that the consumer deems important onto a flash drive*.

All information is kept strictly confidential in accordance with HIPAAs’ Privacy Laws, as well as the standard operating procedures of all centers for independent living.

Suggested information to have scanned include:

* Included as part of your MOCEANS membership support fee.

REGISTER READY is a free, voluntary and confidential program designed to assist people with special needs during emergencies and disasters.  Offered in six counties (Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, Monmouth, Ocean and Salem) by the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, the program works in collaboration with county and local emergency professionals and community organizations to connect networks of first responders to people with special needs in emergency situations. MOCEANS is a registering agent for the program.

The system relies on the active role of individuals to self register and provides relevant information that first responders can use in an emergency.  Not only will emergency responders know where you are in case of evacuation but they will also be able to identify individuals with special needs in isolated emergencies such as loss of electricity for people that require electricity for any medical devices.

For more information call (732) 571-4884. You may write, call or go directly to the website of the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) in your county.

PREPARING MAKES SENSE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS

While each person’s abilities and needs are unique, every individual can take steps to prepare for all kinds of emergencies. By evaluating your own personal needs and making an emergency plan that fits those needs, you and your family can be better prepared. The following information offers a basic foundation for individuals with disabilities, special needs and their caregivers can take to start preparing for emergencies before it happens.

1.    Get A Kit Of Emergency Supplies

Think first about the basics for survival for at least three (3) days – food, water, clean air and any life-sustaining items such as medications you require.  You may want to consider two kits, one for remaining at home and another lightweight kit if you have to leave your home.

• Water - one gallon/person per day for drinking and sanitation
• Food - non-perishable food and a can opener for canned foods.
• Medications and supplies
• Flashlight & extra batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Pet food, extra water and supplies for your pet
• Battery powered or hand crank radio and extra batteries
• Important documents

2.  Make A Plan For What You Will Do In An Emergency

Think about the details of your daily life.  In a disaster situation you will likely not have access to everyday conveniences.  Therefore, for every aspect of your daily routine plan an alternative procedure and write it down.

• What modes of transportation you use and what alternative modes could serve as back-ups.  If you require accessible transportation be sure your alternatives are also accessible.
• If you require aids specific to your disability, plan how you would cope without them.  For example, if you use a communication device, mobility aid, or rely on a service animal, what will you do if these are not available?  (read more of this article)