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Alice Frame, MA - MDHHS Disabilities Unit Coordinator
No matter how extensively emergency preparedness professionals plan for disasters, unanticipated needs arise. In order to minimize the stress of facing obstacles, public health professionals should be aware of what resources exist that could be helpful in those situations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides links disaster related ASL videos on their website put together by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other US departments.
More than a half million people in Michigan have a hearing disability of some kind. American Sign Language (ASL) is the primary language in the United States used by those who are deaf or hard of hearing. ASL is not a signed version of English. ASL is a distinct language with a unique grammar system and syntax. Sign language is not universal and different countries use different versions.
When information is disseminated to the public before, during, and after emergencies, it’s important to reach all facets of the population – including people with disabilities. Therefore, the videos below may be helpful in various types of emergencies to help reach the deaf and hard of hearing population.
Available from the CDC’s website:
There are also many videos available through the FEMA YouTube channel. Some of those include:
Check out the full list and other resources at FEMA’s Resources for People with Disabilities, Access & Functional Needs website.
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