Assisting the Disabled
Ambulatory Persons
• Proceed toward the nearest safe emergency exit.
• Close the door behind you to keep smoke out of the stairway. If the stairway should become unsafe, proceed to a safe area away from smoke and fire, closing doors behind you to isolate the smoke. Call 911 and advise the operator of your situation.
• If in a room with a window, signal rescuers by waving or place a sign in the window. Do not open the window unless smoke is entering the room. If possible, place a wet cloth material around and under the door to prevent smoke from entering.
• Persons who cannot speak loudly should carry a whistle or other means of attracting assistance.
Non-Ambulatory Persons
When assisting someone, always consult the person about the following:
• Ways the person would prefer to be removed from wheelchair.
• Whether to extend or move extremities when lifting because of pain, catheter leg bags, braces, etc.
• Whether a seat cushion or pad should be brought along with the person if he or she is removed from the chair.
• Whether the person would prefer being carried forward or backward on a flight of stairs.
• Whether the person prefers a stretcher, chair with pad or medical assistance when being removed from the wheelchair.
Please Note: Wheelchairs should not be used in stairwell if at all possible.
Visually Impaired Persons
• Tell the person the nature of the emergency.
• Offer to guide him or her to safety.
• As you walk, say where you are and advise of any obstacles.
• When safety is reached, help to orient the person and ask if additional assistance is needed. Do not leave the person alone.
Hearing Impaired Persons
Since alarms may not be heard and some buildings do not have visual alarms, do one of the following:
• Write a note explaining the nature of the emergency. Include “Go to _______ exit NOW,” or
• Turn light switch on and off to gain attention, then indicate through gestures or writing what is happening and what to do.