Conference Introduction

News and Items of Interest

Department of Homeland Security Releases New Preparedness 
Resources For Seniors, People With Disabilities And Pet Owners

View the press release at http://www.dhs.gov/xnews/releases/pr_1187027722320.shtm

Potential Funding Opportunity in Emergency 
Preparedness Related to Technology

NIDRR has priorities out for comment, one of which is for an RERC for Emergency Management Technologies. <http://www.ed.gov/legislation/FedRegister/proprule/2006-3/091906b.html>

Priority 11--RERC for Emergency Management Technologies

Although disasters and emergencies may have a greater impact on individuals with disabilities, their needs and concerns in the areas of emergency preparedness, response, and recovery are often overlooked (National Council on Disability, 2005). Many individuals with disabilities rely on elevators, accessible transportation, and accessible communications, all of which can be compromised during disasters or emergency situations (Executive Order 13347, Annual Report, 2005). The aim of Executive Order 13347 is to ensure that the Federal Government appropriately supports safety and security for individuals with disabilities. Accordingly, NIDRR seeks to fund an RERC that researches, develops, and evaluates emergency management technologies and implementation plans to support the full inclusion of people with disabilities.

References

National Council on Disability, Saving Lives: Including People with Disabilities in Emergency Planning. April 2005. Available at: http://www.ncd.gov/newsroom/

[fxsp0]publications/2005/saving--lives.htm#purpose.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Individuals with Disabilities in Emergency Preparedness: Executive Order 13347, Annual Report, July 2005.

(g) RERC for Emergency Management Technologies (Priority 11). Under this priority, the RERC must research, develop, and evaluate existing and innovative emergency management technologies to enhance emergency outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Areas of focus within this priority research area may include but are not limited to communications, transportation, evacuation, and other areas related to emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. In addition, this RERC must provide input and expertise into the development of standards to improve emergency management for individuals with disabilities. This RERC must work collaboratively with the NIDRR-funded Disability and Rehabilitation Research Project: Inclusive Emergency Evacuation of People with Disabilities.