The U.S. Census Bureau reported that in 2002 about 18 percent of Americans said they had a disability, and 12 percent had a severe disability.
Earthquakes are not uncommon in California, however many are unnoticed if they are 3 or less on the riecter scale. An earthquake the scale of the one experienced in May of 2008 in China has confirmed the number of deaths to be over 69,000. Geological experts have announced that it is highly likely California will experience an earthquake of similar magnitude within the next 30 years. Employers can and should do the two of the most important things in a disaster-prepare and respond.
People with disabilities will need to be addressed in emergency preparedness, and may need assistance. Co-workers should do drills and work as a team to make sure everyone is accounted for.When Hurricanes Katrina and Rita walloped the Gulf Coast in 2005, many people with disabilities were chased from their coastal homes by gale force winds and surging tides. Some were separated from their service animals, others from their needed medications, and still others from their wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
Wherever you live, in any state, mother nature shows her force and we need to be ready, not afraid.
