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Assisting Others

Assisting Others

Emergency Assistance & Accessibility

Everyone Deserves Safe Emergency Assistance

Learn how to properly assist individuals with disabilities during emergency situations

Department of Public Safety Homepage Overview Assistance Types Lifting Techniques Safety Guidelines

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Department of Public Safety Homepage Overview Assistance Types Lifting Techniques Safety Guidelines

Inclusive Emergency Response

During emergency situations, it's crucial that we assist all members of our campus community, including individuals with disabilities. Every person deserves equal access to safety and emergency evacuation assistance.

Pre-planning for individual needs is always best. If time permits during an emergency, contact Public Safety for additional assistance.

This guide provides specific techniques for assisting people with various disabilities during emergency evacuations. Remember that each person's needs are unique, and it's important to ask before providing assistance and follow their guidance on the best way to help.

For assistance in identifying areas of refuge (shelter-in-place) for your area before an emergency occurs, contact Public Safety at extension 7857.

Types of Assistance

Specific guidance for assisting individuals with different types of disabilities during emergencies.

Visually Impaired Persons

When assisting someone with visual impairment, clear communication and proper guidance techniques are essential for safe evacuation.
  • Tell the person the nature of the emergency clearly and calmly.
  • Offer to guide them to the nearest emergency exit.
  • Have the person take your arm (don't grab theirs) - this is the preferred "sighted guide" method.
  • Escort them out, describing any obstacles or changes in direction as you go.

Hearing Impaired Persons

Visual communication methods are key when assisting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing during emergencies.
  • Write a note telling what the emergency is and the nearest evacuation route. For example: "Fire - go out the rear door to the right, and down, NOW".
  • Turn light switch off and on to gain the person's attention.
  • Use clear gestures to show what to do and which direction to go.
  • Stay with them to ensure they understand and can follow the evacuation route safely.

Ambulatory Persons Using Crutches, Canes, and/or Walkers

People who use mobility aids may need additional support during evacuation, especially when navigating stairs or uneven surfaces.
  • Ask the person what type of assistance they prefer before acting.
  • Carrying options include a two-person locked arm position for stability.
  • Alternative: Have the person sit in a sturdy chair, preferably one with arms, for transport.
  • If time permits, call Public Safety for additional assistance with evacuation.
  • Move slowly and carefully, allowing the person to set the pace when possible.

Non-Ambulatory Persons (e.g., wheelchairs)

Wheelchair users require special consideration and often pre-planning for safe emergency evacuation.
  • Contact Public Safety immediately for specialized assistance.
  • Move to an area of refuge such as a stairwell if possible while waiting for help.
  • Consider that wheelchairs have moveable parts and some are not designed for lifting stress.
  • Be aware that you may need to remove chair batteries or disconnect life support equipment.
  • Remember that lifting a person with minimal mobility may be dangerous - pre-planning is essential.
  • Stay with the person and provide reassurance while waiting for trained assistance.

Proper Lifting Techniques

When lifting a person is necessary, always use proper techniques to prevent injury to both yourself and the person you're assisting.

When Lifting a Person, Remember to Use Proper Lifting Techniques

Critical Safety Rule

Never try to lift someone alone. Always get at least two people to help lift a person safely.

Foot Position: Place one foot a little ahead of the other with toes pointed out slightly for better balance and stability.
Stance Width: Place your feet about shoulder width apart to create a stable base of support.
Lifting Method: Bend at your knees and lift yourself and the person with your legs, keeping your back straight throughout the movement.
Communication: Coordinate with your lifting partner - count "1, 2, 3" before lifting and move together smoothly.

Important Considerations

There are many considerations when moving someone who is in a wheelchair. Wheelchairs have moveable parts and some are not designed to withstand the stress of lifting. You may have to remove chair batteries, and life support equipment may also be attached. Because lifting a person with minimal ability to move may be dangerous to them, pre-planning for individual needs is always best.

Safety Guidelines & Best Practices

Essential guidelines for providing safe and effective assistance during emergency situations.

Ask Before Assisting

Always ask the person how they would like to be assisted. They know their needs best and can guide you on the most effective way to help them safely evacuate.

Know Areas of Refuge

Familiarize yourself with designated areas of refuge in your building before an emergency occurs. Contact Public Safety at ext. 7857 for location information.

Call for Professional Help

When in doubt or when specialized equipment is needed, contact Public Safety immediately. Professional emergency responders have training and equipment for complex evacuations.

Pre-Planning is Key

The best assistance happens when emergency plans are made in advance. Encourage individuals with disabilities to create personal emergency evacuation plans.

Teamwork Approach

Never attempt to assist alone when lifting or moving someone is required. Always work with at least one other person for everyone's safety.

Respect & Dignity

Treat everyone with respect and dignity during emergency situations. Maintain the person's independence as much as possible while ensuring their safety.

Remember

Every individual is unique, and their assistance needs may vary. The most important thing is to communicate clearly, act safely, and ensure everyone evacuates to safety. When in doubt, contact Public Safety for professional assistance.