Summer preparedness: how can we ensure the safety of people living with a disability?

As temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, summer can be a risky time – especially for people living with disabilities. Heatwaves, bushfires, power outages, and storms don’t discriminate, but they hit harder when mobility, communication, or medical needs are part of the picture. The harsh truth is this: without proper planning, people with disabilities are often left out of emergency responses that assume everyone can move quickly, hear alarms, or access real-time updates.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Here’s how individuals, families, support workers, and communities can take real steps to protect people with disabilities this summer.

Plan early and be specific

A generic “emergency plan” isn’t enough. Every disability presents unique needs, and those need to be mapped clearly. 

Ask:

• Can the person evacuate quickly if needed? If not, what equipment or assistance is required?
  
• Are they dependent on power for medical devices, lifts, or communication tools? If so, where’s the backup plan when power fails?
  
• Is there a clear communication strategy? Include who will check in, how they’ll communicate, and what to do if networks go down.
  

Create a written plan, share it with family, carers, and neighbours, and keep it accessible-both digitally and in print.

Know the local risks

Not all regions face the same dangers. People in rural areas might deal with bushfires or isolation, while city dwellers face heatwaves, flash floods, and blackouts.

Local councils and disability services often provide tailored emergency information – use it. Register with local alert systems and ensure that the person’s support network understands the specific regional risks and evacuation routes.

Prepare homes and equipment

• Keep medical and mobility equipment serviced before the heat hits.
  
• Check air conditioning and fans early. Don’t wait until the first heatwave to realise the system’s failed.
  
• Create a power backup plan. Portable battery packs or generators (where safe) can keep life-supporting devices running.
  
• Stock up on essentials. At least seven days of medications, water, and shelf-stable food are a must if access is cut off.
  

Also, label all equipment with the person’s name, address, and emergency contacts – just in case.

Build a reliable support network

No one should face an emergency alone. Establish a “safety circle”: a list of people who can check in, provide transport, or help relocate during an emergency. This could include neighbours, carers, and local community volunteers.

Make sure everyone knows their role-and practice the plan. A drill once or twice a year isn’t overkill; it’s smart.

Stay informed (and have a backup for when you can’t)

Access to information can save lives, but in emergencies, it often disappears with the power.

• Have a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for updates.
  
• Ensure emergency alerts are accessible – enable captions, text alerts, or audio notifications depending on the person’s needs.
  
• Follow reliable online sources such as state emergency services, local councils, and disability advocacy groups.
  

And remember: misinformation spreads fast. Always double-check before acting.

Heatwave health checks

Heat can be deadly, especially for people with limited mobility, chronic illness, or sensory sensitivities.

• Keep hydration top of mind.
  
• Monitor indoor temperatures (aim to stay below 26°C).
  
• Recognise signs of heat stress early: dizziness, confusion, nausea, or rapid heartbeat.
  

If air conditioning fails, go to the nearest community centre or shopping centre – don’t wait for symptoms to worsen.

Empower, don’t patronise

Disability inclusion isn’t about “saving” people – it’s about empowerment. Involve the person with a disability in every stage of the planning process. Ask what works for them. Respect their preferences and autonomy. Safety and dignity can coexist.

Advocate for better systems

Finally, preparedness isn’t just an individual responsibility – it’s a collective one. Government agencies, emergency services, and community organisations must make sure disaster plans, alerts, and shelters are accessible to everyone.

Push for change where it’s needed: more inclusive warning systems, better staff training, and public policies that recognise the realities of disability in a crisis.

Preparedness saves lives. It’s not a luxury or an afterthought – it’s a necessity. With clear communication, tailored planning, and community cooperation, we can make sure no one is left behind when summer turns dangerous.

Because safety isn’t one-size-fits-all-and neither is resilience.