Disaster Preparedness Resources for South Carolinians with Disabilities
These state and national organizations offer specialized guidance, hotlines, and planning tools to help people with disabilities and functional needs stay safe before, during, and after a disaster.
State Resources
- Disability Rights South Carolina (DRSC): Serves on the state’s emergency preparedness committees to ensure legal compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) during crises. Disability Rights SC advocates for accessible communications, proper transportation anchoring, and equitable shelter access.
- Family Connection of South Carolina: Specializes in helping families with children who have special healthcare needs build tailored disaster kits and coordinate emergency medication back-ups with doctors and pharmacists
- South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD): The South Carolina Emergency Management Division leads the state emergency management program by supporting local authorities to minimize the loss of life and property from all-hazard events.
- SCEMD Citizens with Functional Needs Planning: This page helps provide detailed guides for creating individualized emergency plans that include a 7-day medication supply, extra hearing-aid batteries, and wheelchair backups.
National Resources
- American Red Cross: Partners with national agencies to maintain Inclusive Preparedness Resources for shelter accessibility and personal disaster kits.
- The Partnership’s Disability & Disaster Hotline: provides information, referrals, guidance, technical assistance and resources to people with disabilities.