Thorner - BCSD Static Server - Bakersfield City School District

Safe School Plan ContinuedSafety for Students with Disabilities orSpecial Needs During an EmergencyStudents with disabilities or special needs may require accommodations or auxiliary aids andservices to prepare and respond to an emergency. Our School has considered the followingadaptations in our routine and emergency disaster procedures.When there is a question concerning whether a student with a disability may follow routine oremergency disaster procedures, we ask the student to demonstrate their understanding and ability tocarry out actions required in an emergency. Additional assistance is provided when the student isunable to fully understand or demonstrate the requisite skills.Our School has a team in place to assist students with disabilities in an emergency.Our School considers classroom location in placement of students with disabilities. We consider thedisability accessibility of nearby exits or the proximity to those in a position of helping the student.When possible, a classroom is selected close to an exit that would permit an easy emergencyevacuation for students with mobility challenges.Our School evaluates ways students may need help during and after an emergency. The table belowgives us some of the additional steps considered for students with a disability or special need.Disability/Special NeedHearing impairedMobility impairedNon-English speakingpersonsMedicationPeople with special dietaryneedsAdditional StepsMay need to make special arrangements to receivewarnings.May need special assistance to get to a shelter.May need assistance planning for and responding toemergencies. Community and cultural groups maybe able to help keep people informed.Adequate supply for a disaster/emergencyShould take special precautions to have an adequateemergency food supply.Our School has established a buddy system, for all students, with special emphasis on significantlydisabled students.Whaley, J. & Kleinsasser, H. (1996). “Safety for Students with Disabilities.” Inside School Safety,Vol. 1:5, Aspen Publishers.26