Being prepared for emergencies is critically important in today's changing world. It is especially important for persons with disabilities or for those needing assistance during these emergencies. The Board of Education and Services for the Blind has recently updated its Fire Manual for persons with visual limitations. This document will assist you in being better prepared for a disaster or emergency. One's ability to successfully respond to a disaster is directly related to your preparedness to the emergency or disaster.

To request a copy, contact BESB at: 1-800-842-4510. The manual can be obtained in Braille, Large print or on disc.

It is important for individuals to begin taking stock of the following items:

1. Registering with the State 911 system. The information provided will be shared with the local emergency personnel only during emergencies in your town.

2. Developing a Disaster Supply kit. This is a collection of items that a family or an individual needs to be safe for a minimum of seventy-two hours. It is recommended to have an emergency kit in one's vehicle and at their place of employment.

3. Prepare a plan for yourself and or family. Determine what assistance you might need before, during and after an emergency. Set up a communication system with family and friends. Make sure family knows how to communicate, email, cell, pager,
TTY, etc.

4. Make a list of your doctor, medications etc.

5. Review your community's plan and know where the nearest shelter is should you need to evacuate.

For more information, the following web link will bring you to the updated BESB Fire Safety and Emergency Procedure manual.
http://www.ct.gov/besb/lib/besb/Fire_Safety.doc

For more information, E-mail us at: info@nfbct.org