Creating a plan before an emergency occurs is one way to help your student or family know what to do if an emergency arises. When a child is Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH), additional considerations are needed to ensure the student has access and clear communication.
As you develop your plan, consider your child’s access to the emergency alerting systems. Do you know about available alert systems that are designed for individuals who are DHH? How might access to an alert system for your child change at night vs. daytime? What additional services are available to support your plan?
Helpful Resource
How prepared is your family for an emergency? [PDF]
This handout from the Florida Department of Education includes ten communication guidelines to support safety for families of children who are DHH.
Alert Systems
MI Prevention collaborates with fire organizations, local fire departments, and other community organizations to help keep Michigan residents safer in their communities. Families of children who are DHH often seek out support for visual or vibrating alerting systems in case of an emergency. MI Prevention is available to connect families with local resources for access to visual alerting fire alarm(s) for the home. For more information on disability-specific alarms, contact your local fire department or [email protected].
For more information on exploring or receiving an alert device:
Michigan Red Cross - Request a Smoke Alarm
Families can complete a form to get a free smoke alarm installed. This website also includes printable worksheets to design a home fire escape plan.
Diuble Family Vision Foundation Alarm/Emergency Preparedness Program
This program is for families of children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Each child can get one free alarm system.
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) - Hearing Assistive Technology program
Individuals and families may come to the DHHS office in Grand Rapids to test different pieces of equipment, including visual-alert smoke alarms.
Diglo
Diglo offers hearing assistive technology products that are available to purchase.
Additional Services
Some counties in Michigan have partnered with Smart911 to provide additional information about your family to first responders before they arrive at your home. Families can create a safety profile that may include medical information, specific information about your home (e.g., the location of a child’s bedroom), and any additional information that may be helpful for first responders. Check with your local emergency system provider to see if this service is available in your area.
Preparing for Emergencies at School
Individual student needs, including communication, should be considered when preparing for emergency protocols and situations within the school setting. Personalized plans should be developed and/or discussed with the educational team and reviewed annually, as well as prior to any building drills. Students should be aware of their emergency plan at school and how they will have access to alerts prior to practice drills. It is critical that building staff are aware of the student’s plan and how the student will access directions and communication during emergency situations.