{"id":8274,"date":"2024-04-05T11:22:47","date_gmt":"2024-04-05T18:22:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/arizonahearing.com\/?p=8274"},"modified":"2024-04-08T11:53:26","modified_gmt":"2024-04-08T18:53:26","slug":"disaster-preparation-techniques-for-those-with-hearing-loss","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/arizonahearing.com\/disaster-preparation-techniques-for-those-with-hearing-loss\/","title":{"rendered":"Disaster Preparation Techniques for Those with Hearing Loss"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Navigating unexpected emergencies or natural disasters can be stressful for everyone. Hearing loss<\/a> can add an additional layer of uncertainty and stress. Approximately one in eight people in the U.S. have some degree of hearing loss<\/a>, so there are several tools and recommended processes available to keep yourself safe in the event of an emergency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of the situation, it\u2019s essential to have a few key items and plans in place for both you and your hearing dog, if you have one.<\/p>\n\n\n

What To Prepare<\/h2>\n\n
\n
\"Woman<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Consider the following to be prepared in case you find yourself without power, displaced from your home or in a different emergency situation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Purchase a hearing loss-friendly emergency weather monitor or sign up for reverse 911 calls. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The National Weather Service provides weather monitoring broadcasting through NOAA Weather Radio (NWR). You can obtain a receiver that works in partnership with your existing security systems. You may also sign up for local text alerts from emergency officials that will provide you with relevant safety information in the event of an emergency. Sign up through Pima County Emergency Alerts<\/a> or through your local department\u2019s site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Know what steps to take depending on the emergency and prepare your support system. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

FEMA offers community emergency response courses that are accessible to those with hearing loss. These courses will prepare you for the types of emergencies you may face in your area. Visit this site to find a local CERT<\/a>. If you prefer researching on your own, look up common natural disasters in your area and how to prepare. Local libraries may offer books or other learnings on disaster preparedness. You can also contact your local fire department for guidance on preparing for potential emergencies in your area. Additionally, take time to educate friends, family, and neighbors about your plans in the event of an emergency and learn about theirs. Educate them on your hearing loss and any assistive devices you may use so everyone is prepared to support you and vice versa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prepare an emergency kit. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prepare a bag with essentials to keep yourself safe in the event of an emergency. For those with hearing loss, this should include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n