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PeerGalaxy Original Calendar
Welcome to PeerGalaxy Calendar featuring over 336,800+ monthly offerings of FREE telephone- and online-accessible peer support, recovery support, and wellness activities! Plus 50+ warmlines, helplines, chatlines, and hotlines. Plus workshops, webinars, job postings, resources, observances, special events, consumer input opportunities and more.
WE ARE PEER FOR YOU!
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If you have an event to add, email us: [email protected]
Training Opportunities in July 2020
List Provided Courtesy of State of Oregon, Oregon Health Authority
Click here to download PDF Format, 16 pages
Calendar Event Sorting
At the top, the 24/7/365 SAMHSA Disaster Helpline and similar links.
Next, Bundled “All Day” Events
Some organizations (like 12 step recovery programs, AA, NA, AlAnon, etc.) have so many events happening throughout the day that they need to be in a bundled listing to spare endless scrolling. Often there is a link to look up events by zip code and other criteria.
Lastly, Time-Specific Events
So you can see what’s happening in the next hours, time specific events are tagged and listed by start time from 12:01am early morning to 11:59pm late night. There can be events and warmlines operating in different time zones, though we try to list all in Oregon’s Pacific Time Zone.
Page Advancement
The calendar displays ~50 listings per page. To advance to next page with ~50 more listings, click the right arrow in the lower left corner of the calendar
Nov
10
Mon
2025
Nov 10 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
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Using a Walker?
Image
Using a Wheelchair?
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Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
Image
- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 10 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 10 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov 10 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Parents Anonymous
Parents Anonymous Support Groups
Moms only group
-
Meets from 5:30 – 7:00 PM
-
Call in number: 1-669-900-9128 Code: 844-9454-7966#
-
Password: 66632972
-
Zoom ID# 844 9454 7966
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84494547966?pwd=bTI1ajdKU0QwbnQ2SSt4SW5VTnRmdz09
Nov
11
Tue
2025
Nov 11 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
Image
1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
Image
Using a Walker?
Image
Using a Wheelchair?
Image
Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
Image
- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 11 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 11 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov 11 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Parents Anonymous
Parents Anonymous Support Groups
Tuesday – 1:00pm Moms only group
-
Meets from 1:00 – 2:30 pm
-
Call in number: 1-669-900-6833 Code: 905-050-212#
-
Password: 883732972
-
Zoom ID# 905 050 212
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/905050212?pwd=NzVwUGFpMzA5Uk5RK1VPclRaYVJ5dz09
Nov 11 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Power On Portland
Tuesdays, 2-3PM PST
At OHSU Center For Health and Healing Building #2 (CHH 2) Room 11010. Located at 3485 S. Bond Ave., Portland, OR 97239 OR tune in on Zoom.
Please plan to arrive early to sort out parking (passes available) and find our space. You are welcome to log into Zoom early as well to work out any technical difficulties.
Nov 11 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
The Joy in the Journey: Manifest. Heal. Rise.
TUESDAY Sat 4pm PST / 7pm EST,
Maureen Joy / Maureen Joy Healing Journey
presents The Joy in the Journey: Manifest. Heal, Rise!
About this meeting
Week by week, Maureen Joy and Bree will co-facilitate this 10 week series of online community meetings discussing The Joy in the Journey of Healing. Maureen shares her “JOY GEMS.” Manifest, heal and rise! This includes Setting Intentions as We Embark on the Journey. The Power of Presence, Mindfulness and Awareness. Emotional Alchemy – Feel it to Heal it! Goals, Desires and Processing. Taking Our Power Back with Healthy Boundaries. Increasing Focus & Clarity for Actualizing. Co-Creating with the Universe. Releasing Limiting Beliefs. Visioning for Change. Flexibility and Resilience Aligning the Soul with Values and Purpose. Empowering Support for Successful Outcomes.
Meeting link: https://heypeers.com//meetings/46207. Registration required, links below.
If you’re new to HeyPeers, SIGN UP with PeerGalaxy at this link:
https://heypeers.com/members/sign_up?org=PeerGalaxy
If you have a HeyPeers account, SIGN IN at this link:
https://heypeers.com/users/sign_in?org=PeerGalaxy
To view PeerGalaxy calendar on HeyPeers, visit this link:
https://heypeers.com/organizations/139/scheduled_meetings
Nov
12
Wed
2025
Nov 12 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
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1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
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Using a Walker?
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Using a Wheelchair?
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Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
Image
- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 12 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 12 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov 12 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Power On With Limb Loss
Our Power On Social Hour
Wednesdays, 4-5PM PST
If you are planning on attending in person, please arrive between 3:30-3:45 at 2748 U Street in Springfield. I have a wheelchair ramp for anyone who needs it.
Or you are welcome to join on Zoom. Log in 10 or 15 minutes early so we can chat or troubleshoot technical difficulties.
Nov 12 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Salem Support Meeting
Wednesdays, 6-7PM PST
If you are coming in person, plan to get there about 5:30 to find a place to park, and walk the distance into the Community Health Education Center Support Group Room, on the Salem Health Campus, Building D, First Floor…
If you are attending on Zoom, I will be on at 5:45 so please join at least 5 minutes early so we can adjust your sound and the video, especially if you are new to zooming!
Nov
13
Thu
2025
Nov 13 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
Image
1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
Image
Using a Walker?
Image
Using a Wheelchair?
Image
Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
Image
- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 13 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 13 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov 13 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Parents Anonymous
Parents Anonymous Support Groups
Thursday – 10:00am Moms and Dads group
- Meets from 10am-11:30am
- Call in number: 1-669-900-9128 Code: 865-2147-2156#
- Password: 12345
- Zoom ID# 865 2147 2156
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86521472156?pwd=WVRDZDlFR3ZHR3FJVlJuL3ZLWTB6dz09
Nov 13 @ 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Parents Anonymous
Parents Anonymous Support Groups
Thursday – 8:00pm Dads only group
- Meets from 8pm-9:30pm
- Call in number: 1-669-900-6833 Code: 343-096-064#
- Password: 84877722
- Zoom ID# 343 096 064
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/343096064?pwd=cGNqL1VkeVNyNmkxWXdMNHFPSHN6QT09
Nov
14
Fri
2025
Nov 14 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
Image
1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
Image
Using a Walker?
Image
Using a Wheelchair?
Image
Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
Image
- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 14 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 14 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov 14 @ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Parents Anonymous
Parents Anonymous Support Groups
Friday – 12:00pm Moms and Dads group
-
Meets from 12:00-1:30pm
-
Call in number: 1-669-900-6833 Code: 152-113-798#
-
Password: 37432972
-
Zoom ID# 152 113 798
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/152113798?pwd=WHNiaTVGOFVPaVV5NmRxa0ZWTGMwZz09
Nov
15
Sat
2025
Nov 15 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
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1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
Image
Using a Walker?
Image
Using a Wheelchair?
Image
Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
Image
- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 15 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 15 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov
16
Sun
2025
Nov 16 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
Image
1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
Image
Using a Walker?
Image
Using a Wheelchair?
Image
Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
Image
- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 16 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 16 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov
17
Mon
2025
Nov 17 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
Image
1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
Image
Using a Walker?
Image
Using a Wheelchair?
Image
Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
Image
- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 17 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 17 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov 17 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Parents Anonymous
Parents Anonymous Support Groups
Moms only group
-
Meets from 5:30 – 7:00 PM
-
Call in number: 1-669-900-9128 Code: 844-9454-7966#
-
Password: 66632972
-
Zoom ID# 844 9454 7966
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84494547966?pwd=bTI1ajdKU0QwbnQ2SSt4SW5VTnRmdz09
Nov
18
Tue
2025
Nov 18 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
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1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
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Using a Walker?
Image
Using a Wheelchair?
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Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
Image
- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 18 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 18 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov 18 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Parents Anonymous
Parents Anonymous Support Groups
Tuesday – 1:00pm Moms only group
-
Meets from 1:00 – 2:30 pm
-
Call in number: 1-669-900-6833 Code: 905-050-212#
-
Password: 883732972
-
Zoom ID# 905 050 212
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/905050212?pwd=NzVwUGFpMzA5Uk5RK1VPclRaYVJ5dz09
Nov 18 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Power On Portland
Tuesdays, 2-3PM PST
At OHSU Center For Health and Healing Building #2 (CHH 2) Room 11010. Located at 3485 S. Bond Ave., Portland, OR 97239 OR tune in on Zoom.
Please plan to arrive early to sort out parking (passes available) and find our space. You are welcome to log into Zoom early as well to work out any technical difficulties.
Nov 18 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
The Joy in the Journey: Manifest. Heal. Rise.
TUESDAY Sat 4pm PST / 7pm EST,
Maureen Joy / Maureen Joy Healing Journey
presents The Joy in the Journey: Manifest. Heal, Rise!
About this meeting
Week by week, Maureen Joy and Bree will co-facilitate this 10 week series of online community meetings discussing The Joy in the Journey of Healing. Maureen shares her “JOY GEMS.” Manifest, heal and rise! This includes Setting Intentions as We Embark on the Journey. The Power of Presence, Mindfulness and Awareness. Emotional Alchemy – Feel it to Heal it! Goals, Desires and Processing. Taking Our Power Back with Healthy Boundaries. Increasing Focus & Clarity for Actualizing. Co-Creating with the Universe. Releasing Limiting Beliefs. Visioning for Change. Flexibility and Resilience Aligning the Soul with Values and Purpose. Empowering Support for Successful Outcomes.
Meeting link: https://heypeers.com//meetings/46207. Registration required, links below.
If you’re new to HeyPeers, SIGN UP with PeerGalaxy at this link:
https://heypeers.com/members/sign_up?org=PeerGalaxy
If you have a HeyPeers account, SIGN IN at this link:
https://heypeers.com/users/sign_in?org=PeerGalaxy
To view PeerGalaxy calendar on HeyPeers, visit this link:
https://heypeers.com/organizations/139/scheduled_meetings
Nov
19
Wed
2025
Nov 19 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
Image
1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
Image
Using a Walker?
Image
Using a Wheelchair?
Image
Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
Image
- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 19 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 19 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov 19 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Power On With Limb Loss
Our Power On Social Hour
Wednesdays, 4-5PM PST
If you are planning on attending in person, please arrive between 3:30-3:45 at 2748 U Street in Springfield. I have a wheelchair ramp for anyone who needs it.
Or you are welcome to join on Zoom. Log in 10 or 15 minutes early so we can chat or troubleshoot technical difficulties.
Nov 19 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Salem Support Meeting
Wednesdays, 6-7PM PST
If you are coming in person, plan to get there about 5:30 to find a place to park, and walk the distance into the Community Health Education Center Support Group Room, on the Salem Health Campus, Building D, First Floor…
If you are attending on Zoom, I will be on at 5:45 so please join at least 5 minutes early so we can adjust your sound and the video, especially if you are new to zooming!
Nov
20
Thu
2025
Nov 20 all-day
If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call (800) 621-3362.
EARTH QUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Prepare Before an Earthquake
The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.
- Practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes, with family and coworkers.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications planthat has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.
- Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
- Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.
Stay Safe During
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:
- If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you’re outside, stay there. Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop and cover until shaking stops to protect yourself from flying debris. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance.
Protect Yourself During Earthquakes
Image
1. Drop (or Lock)
Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover
Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold On
If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Using a Cane?
Image
Using a Walker?
Image
Using a Wheelchair?
Image
Stay Safe After
There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.
- Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
- If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
- If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
- Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
- If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.
- Use social media to let people know you’re okay.
- Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.
- Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
Additional Resources
Videos
- When the Earth Shakes
- Earthquake Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
- Earthquake Safety Video Series (Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills)
- Pablo y Paola Terremoto
Social Media and Graphics
Tip Sheets
- Earthquake Informational Poster (PDF)
- Earthquake Preparedness: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know (PDF)
- Earthquake Safety at Home (PDF)
- Resources for People With Disabilities (Earthquake Country Alliance)
More Information
- The Great ShakeOut: Earthquake Drills
- U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
- American Red Cross
- Earthquake Country Alliance
- National Science Foundation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology
Prepare with Disabilities
Plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable.
Disability intersects every demographic group—there are people with disabilities of all ages, races, sex or national origin. And, disabilities can impact a person in a variety of ways—both visible and invisible. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Get Informed
- Know what disasters could affect your area, which ones could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
- Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio. Follow mobile alerts and warnings about severe weather in your area.
- Download the FEMA App and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
Make a Plan
In the event of a disaster could you make it on your own for several days? After a disaster you may not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It’s crucial to plan for your daily needs and know what you would do if they become limited or unavailable. Additional planning steps include:
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- Create a support network of people who can help you in a disaster. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit or on your electronic devices.
- Inform your support network where you keep your emergency supplies. You may want to consider giving a trusted member a key to your house or apartment.
- Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
- Many city and county emergency management agencies maintain voluntary registries for people with disabilities to self-identify in order to receive targeted assistance during emergencies and disasters. Contact your local emergency management office to find out more.
- If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
- If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
- About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets. Also add pertinent medical information to your electronic devices.
- If you have a communication disability consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
- If you use assistive technologies, plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if lost or destroyed.
- Locate and access your electronic health records from a variety of sources by using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ online tool.
- Plan for children and adults who may have difficulty in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Consider your service or support animal or pets and plan for food, water and supplies. If you need to evacuate, you’ll need to know whether your shelter allows pets or not, since some shelters only allow service or support animals.
- Keep a list of the nearest medical facilities, local hospitals and nearest accessible transportation.
Get Your Benefits Electronically
A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is an easy way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:
- Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. If you get federal benefits you can sign up by calling 800-333-1795 or sign up online.
- The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at 877-212-9991 or sign up online.
Build a Kit
In addition to having your basic survival supplies, an emergency kit should have items to meet your individual needs in various emergencies. Consider the items you use every day and which ones you may need to add to your kit.
Tips for Medications
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
- Keep a list of your prescription medicines. Include information about your diagnosis, dosage, frequency, medical supply needs and allergies.
- Store extra nonprescription drugs, like pain and fever relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medicines.
- Have a cooler and chemical ice packs available to chill medicines that need to be refrigerated.
Tips for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Weather radio (with text display and a flashing alert)
- Extra hearing-aid batteries
- Pen and paper (in case you have to communicate with someone who does not know sign language)
- Battery operated lantern to enable communication by sign language or lip reading, especially when the electricity is out and it’s dark.
Tips for People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- Mark emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print. Keep a list of your emergency supplies and where you bought them on a portable flash drive or make an audio file that is kept in a safe place where you can access it.
- Keep communication devices for your particular needs, such as a Braille or deaf-blind communications device as part of your emergency supply kit.
Tips for People with Speech Disability
- If you use an augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies plan how you will evacuate with the devices or how you will replace equipment if it is lost or destroyed. Keep model information and note where the equipment came from (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, etc.).
- Plan how you will communicate with others if your equipment is not working, including laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram.
Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
- Keep handheld electronic devices charged and loaded with videos and activities.
- Purchase spare chargers for electronic devices and keep them charged.
- Include sheets and twine or a small pop-up tent (to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room or to provide instant privacy).
- Consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to decrease auditory stimuli.
- Have comfort snacks available.
Tips for People with a Mobility Disability
- If you use a power wheelchair have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup if possible.
- Show others how to assemble, disassemble and operate your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you can’t purchase an extra battery, find out what agencies, organizations or local charitable groups can help you buy one. Keep extra batteries charged at all times.
- Consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube if wheelchair or scooter is not puncture proof.
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker if you use one.
- Keep a portable air pump for wheelchair tires.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance and you must evacuate, consider keeping an extra cushion on hand.
- Communicate with neighbors who can assist you if you need to evacuate the building.
Tips for Individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia
- Do not leave the person alone. Even those who aren’t prone to wandering away may do so in unfamiliar environments or situations.
- If evacuating, help manage the change in environment by bringing a pillow and blanket or other comforting items they can hold onto.
- When at a shelter, try to stay away from exits and choose a quiet corner.
- If there is an episode of agitation, respond to the emotions being expressed. For example, say “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
Additional Items
- Several days supply of prescription medicines
- A list of all medications, dosage and any allergies
- Extra eyeglasses, contacts, hearing aids and batteries
- A backup supply of oxygen
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices (include special instructions for operating your equipment if needed)
- Copies of insurance and Medicare cards
- Contact information for doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt
- Pet food, extra water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other supplies for your service or support animal
People Experiencing Extreme Heat
People with disabilities, access and functional needs, and older adults may be at increased risk to extreme heat. For example:
- People with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk during extreme heat because they may not be able to cool their body through sweating.
- People with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are at risk because their medications may interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself.
- People with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are at risk because they may have trouble understanding and explaining how the heat affects them. This could prevent them from taking protective actions. It’s important to know that a person’s ability to perceive and communicate physical discomfort may vary with the stage of dementia or disease.
It is important to plan ahead, take precautions, have support, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exposure. Keep these tips in mind during extreme heat:
- If you have a support network – caregivers, family and friends – ask them to help monitor and address your heat-related needs; have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy.
- Read the side effects of medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to cool the body if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Ask your local energy utility for priority access in the event of power loss because power restoration is life-sustaining for someone in the home.
- Monitor your local weather and emergency information alerts.
- Have a plan that includes shade, hydration, sun protection, and limiting exposure time if you’re going to be outdoors.
- Identify possible locations with air-conditioning and ensure needed accommodations ahead of time. This could include someone in your support network with air conditioning.
- Coordinate accessible transportation to/from cooling options.
- People with medical needs who can’t be accommodated at conventional cooling options may have to contact local hospitals or nursing homes to create contingency plans if they can’t stay at home.
Associated Content
- Preparing Makes Sense For People With Disabilities
- People with Disabilities Bookmarks (Front and Back)
- Preparing with Disabilities Social Media Toolkit
- Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
- Transit Commuter Emergency Communication Plan (PDF)
Videos (with open captions and ASL)
Personal Disaster Preparedness
- I Use a Wheelchair
- I am Hard of Hearing
- I am Blind
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (:19)
- What to Know if You Live with a Disability (1:14)
We Prepare Everyday
Nov 20 all-day
National Parent & Youth Helpline
(855) 427-2736
Real LIFE help from real LIVE people
Our goal is to provide support and guidance to everyone in need of support.
If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal challenge or just need someone to talk to, the Helpline’s dedicated specialists are always ready to assist.
Call, text or live chat. Always free. Always human.
Always ready to listen.
Always ready to listen.
ABOUT PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®
Since 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. has supported the personal growth journey of millions of Parents, Children, and Youth across the nation, building on the strengths of families and communities through well-documented, proven results Parents Anonymous® Programs, Services, and Initiatives. Parents Anonymous® began through the extraordinary vision of Jolly K.—a mother working to overcome obstacles and foster positive development for her children—and clinical social worker Leonard Lieber. The Parents Anonymous® Family Strengthening Program includes the Helpline and Free Weekly Support Groups for Adults with separate developmental and age-appropriate Groups for their Children and Youth.
According to the Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® is the only program in the nation that effectively improves parenting, promotes well-being, and reduces substance use while supporting child safety for children and youth of all ages
Parents Anonymous® Inc. also operates various other services and initiatives such as Medi-Cal Peer Support, Prevention Education Program, United Mental Health Promoters, Shared Leadership® in Action, Strengthening Families San Gabriel Valley, California Peer Parent Network, and National Leadership Certification. Parents Anonymous® Inc. is committed to fostering positive outcomes for families and communities by providing supportive opportunities for everyone.
Ongoing research and evaluation are essential to strengthening families and communities, ensuring a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. Parents Anonymous® Programs, Initiatives, Staff, and Volunteers promote a culture of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and strong family foundations. By fostering resilience and supporting parents, children, and youth, these programs contribute to lasting positive change that uplifts families and neighborhoods across the country.
Nov 20 all-day
Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres y Jóvenes
(855) 427-2736
Ayuda REAL de personas REALES
Nuestro objetivo es brindar apoyo y orientación a todas las personas que lo necesiten.
Si estás pasando por dificultades como madre, padre, cuidador, niño o joven, esta línea de ayuda es un recurso dedicado para quienes buscan apoyo y orientación inmediata, disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Ya sea que estés enfrentando un desafío personal o simplemente necesites a alguien con quien hablar, los especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda están siempre listos para ayudarte.
Llama, envía un mensaje de texto o chatea en vivo. Siempre gratis. Siempre humano.
Siempre listos para escuchar.
SOBRE PARENTS ANONYMOUS
Pedir ayuda es una señal de fortaleza®
Desde 1969, Parents Anonymous® Inc. ha apoyado el crecimiento personal de millones de padres, madres, niños, niñas y jóvenes en todo el país, fortaleciendo a las familias y comunidades a través de programas, servicios e iniciativas con resultados comprobados.
Parents Anonymous® nació gracias a la visión extraordinaria de Jolly K.—una madre que buscaba superar obstáculos y fomentar el desarrollo positivo de sus hijos—y del trabajador social clínico Leonard Lieber.
El Programa de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Parents Anonymous® incluye la Línea de Ayuda y Grupos de Apoyo Semanales Gratuitos para Personas Adultas, con Grupos separados según el desarrollo y la edad para sus Hijos, Hijas y Jóvenes.
Según el Federal Title IV-E Prevention Clearinghouse, Parents Anonymous® es el único programa en el país que mejora efectivamente la crianza, promueve el bienestar, y reduce el consumo de sustancias mientras apoya la seguridad de niños, niñas y jóvenes de todas las edades.
Parents Anonymous® Inc. también opera otros servicios e iniciativas como:
- Apoyo entre Pares Medi-Cal
- Programa de Educación para la Prevención
- Promotores de Salud Mental Unidos
- Liderazgo Compartido® en Acción
- Fortaleciendo Familias en el Valle de San Gabriel
- Red de Padres Compañeros de California
- Certificación Nacional de Liderazgo
Parents Anonymous® Inc. está comprometido con promover resultados positivos para familias y comunidades mediante oportunidades de apoyo para todas las personas.
La investigación y evaluación continua son esenciales para fortalecer familias y comunidades, garantizando un futuro en el que todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de prosperar. Los programas, iniciativas, personal y voluntariado de Parents Anonymous® fomentan una cultura de responsabilidad personal, respeto mutuo y bases familiares sólidas.
Al fortalecer la resiliencia y apoyar a madres, padres, niños, niñas y jóvenes, estos programas contribuyen a un cambio positivo duradero que impulsa a las familias y comunidades de todo el país.
Nov 20 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Parents Anonymous
Parents Anonymous Support Groups
Thursday – 10:00am Moms and Dads group
- Meets from 10am-11:30am
- Call in number: 1-669-900-9128 Code: 865-2147-2156#
- Password: 12345
- Zoom ID# 865 2147 2156
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86521472156?pwd=WVRDZDlFR3ZHR3FJVlJuL3ZLWTB6dz09
Nov 20 @ 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Parents Anonymous
Parents Anonymous Support Groups
Thursday – 8:00pm Dads only group
- Meets from 8pm-9:30pm
- Call in number: 1-669-900-6833 Code: 343-096-064#
- Password: 84877722
- Zoom ID# 343 096 064
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/343096064?pwd=cGNqL1VkeVNyNmkxWXdMNHFPSHN6QT09
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