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Consumer Perspective

Narrative Analysis of a Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response Survey From Persons With Mobility Impairments

Research and Training Center on Independent Living, University of Kansas, catr{at}ku.edu

Glen W. White

Research and Training Center on Independent Living, University of Kansas

The purpose of this qualitative study is to gain a better understanding of disaster preparedness for and the difficulties faced by persons with mobility impairments to guide future research and policy development. From an online Internet survey, 56 persons with mobility impairments who have experienced a catastrophic event described what was helpful for survival, what difficulties were experienced during and after the event, lessons learned, and future directions for emergency management. From a consumer perspective, it was found that both general and disability-related disaster preparedness efforts were useful for the survival, independence, health, and safety of persons with mobility impairments. It was also found that coworkers, family, friends, neighbors, and strangers often formed spontaneous networks during and after disasters that provided needed assistance. Difficulties surfaced when there was a lack of community and workplace evacuation plans, someone was left behind during an evacuation, there was no accessible sheltering or temporary housing, and infrastructure broke down (power, public transportation, and elevators). Persons with mobility impairments encouraged their peers to develop individual preparedness plans and to be active in community-based disaster planning. Emergency management was asked to address the needs of persons with disabilities and to include them in emergency management.

Journal of Disability Policy Studies, Vol. 17, No. 4, 206-215 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/10442073070170040301


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