Special Needs & Medical

Evacuating with special medical or mobility needs often requires more than simply packing a suitcase.

You may need to consider:

• Prescription medications
• Medical records
• Powered medical equipment
• Wheelchairs or mobility devices
• Refrigerated medications
• Oxygen supplies
• Specialized transportation
• Accessible lodging
• Caregivers

Leaving early often provides the greatest flexibility and reduces the pressure of making difficult decisions during heavy traffic or deteriorating weather.

Don’t wait until a hurricane warning is issued.

Before hurricane season:

• Refill prescriptions whenever possible.
• Keep an updated medication list.
• Carry copies of prescriptions.
• Pack medications in their original containers.
• Include over-the-counter medications you use regularly.

Bring enough medication to last beyond your planned trip in case your return home is delayed.

If someone depends on medical equipment, your evacuation plan should include backup options.

Examples include:

• CPAP machines
• Oxygen concentrators
• Nebulizers
• Feeding equipment
• Hearing aids
• Mobility devices
• Blood glucose monitors

Know how your equipment will be powered during travel and where you can recharge batteries if needed.

Extended power outages can quickly become medical emergencies.

If someone depends on electricity for life-sustaining equipment:

• Leave early if evacuation is recommended.
• Bring backup batteries.
• Pack charging equipment.
• Know the location of medical shelters if available.
• Register with local emergency programs if your community offers them.

Planning ahead gives emergency responders more time to assist those with the greatest needs.

Older adults may require additional planning due to mobility, medications, or medical conditions.

Consider:

• Mobility aids
• Extra medications
• Hearing aids and batteries
• Eyeglasses
• Medical alert information
• Contact information for healthcare providers

Travel schedules may also need to include more frequent rest stops and overnight accommodations.

Every disability is different.

Consider your individual needs when planning for:

• Transportation
• Shelter accessibility
• Medical equipment
• Communication
• Service animals
• Caregiver support
• Accessible hotel rooms

Research accessible accommodations before hurricane season whenever possible.

Young children require additional supplies during an evacuation.

Pack enough for several extra days.

Include:

• Formula or baby food
• Bottles
• Diapers
• Wipes
• Medications
• Comfort items
• Favorite toys
• Extra clothing

Maintaining familiar routines can help reduce stress during long travel days.

Service animals remain an important part of emergency planning.

Bring:

• Food
• Water
• Medications
• Identification
• Leashes
• Harnesses
• Veterinary records
• Vaccination documentation

Research shelter and hotel policies before you travel.

Carry important medical information in both paper and digital formats.

Include:

• Medication lists
• Allergies
• Medical conditions
• Insurance cards
• Emergency contacts
• Physician information
• Copies of prescriptions
• Medical device instructions

Keeping this information organized can save valuable time during an emergency.

Review your household one last time.

Ask:

✔ Does everyone have enough medication?

✔ Are medical devices packed?

✔ Are batteries fully charged?

✔ Do we have copies of important medical records?

✔ Does everyone know where we’re going?

✔ Is our destination prepared for our medical or accessibility needs?

Taking a few extra minutes now can prevent major problems later.

Waiting Too Long

People with additional needs often require more time to travel safely.

Forgetting Backup Power

Medical equipment may require batteries, generators, or charging stations.

Bringing Too Little Medication

Plan for delays and extended evacuations.

Not Researching Shelter Accessibility

Confirm accommodations before departure whenever possible.

Leaving Important Documents Behind

Medical information should always travel with you.

Assuming Supplies Will Be Available

Bring what you need rather than expecting to find it along the way.

Continue building your evacuation plan:

• Medical & Safety – Build your emergency medical kit.
• Vehicle Readiness – Prepare your vehicle for travel.
• Gas, Food & Shelter – Plan for long-distance evacuation.
• Communications – Keep emergency contacts accessible.
• Family & Pets – Prepare every member of your household.
• Real-Time Maps & Alerts – Stay informed as conditions change.

No two households are exactly alike, and no evacuation plan should assume they are.

Planning for special medical, mobility, and accessibility needs before hurricane season gives you more time, more flexibility, and greater peace of mind when severe weather threatens.

The goal isn’t simply to evacuate.

It’s to ensure every member of your household arrives safely and has the care and support they need throughout the journey.