If you have a mobility impairment

Be prepared

If you have a mobility impairment, a power cut, a flood or another public emergency can be particularly difficult. 

• Contact your local authority and find out what support they have for people with mobility impairments.
• Maintain regular contact with your neighbours. It is important that they are aware of your mobility impairment and that you may need help in a crisis.

Good to have at home

Everyone needs to be able to look after themselves for at least a week and keep a stock at home of food, water, medicines and other essentials.

Read more about home preparedness

Special advice for those with mobility impairments

• If you have an electric wheelchair, make sure you also have a lightweight manual wheelchair as a backup.
• If you use a special cushion, take it with you if you have to leave home without your wheelchair.
• Keep a spare walking stick or walking frame at home.
• Keep tools for your equipment, such as a spanner.
• Get a head torch. It’s useful for keeping your hands free.
• Carry a whistle to signal that you need help.

Practise for a crisis

Imagine a crisis situation, such as a long power cut. Think about how you would get hold of food, water and important information, use the toilet, and communicate with others when there is no electricity. Practising will help you be better prepared. You may also identify gaps in your preparedness that you can improve.