The Emergency Preparedness Tips for Those with Functional Needs Guidebook was developed by a team of emergency management and health professionals to provide preparedness tips for people with a variety of special needs. In addition to providing detailed information on building a disaster kit and documenting important health information, the guidebook also contains specific advice for seniors and the deaf and hard of hearing. Similarly, it includes tips for people living with cognitive impairments, life support systems, mental health and substance abuse issues, mobility impairments, service animals and pets, and visual impairments. Tips cover issues such as planning for specialized supplies and communications, and the guidebook even includes a list for a service animal supply kit. It should be noted that the chapter on mental health and substance abuse only refers to people who may develop these issues during or after the emergency. The reference section contains a list of Illinois agencies and Web sites, although the list could be adapted to fit the circumstances of any jurisdiction. Also included in the guidebook is a booklet that was created by FEMA and the American Red Cross. The booklet discusses the importance of preparedness, how to complete a personal assessment, and how to develop a comprehensive emergency plan.
One reviewer noted that the guidebook's strengths include the specific information it provides on functional needs, its thorough explanation of how to develop an emergency plan, and a layout that is easy to follow and understand.
