GLOSSARY

adaptive equipment: Equipment that helps a person move, groom or eat independently; devices used to offset functional limits.

augmentative communication device: A device used to help a person communicate by voice.

blindness/visual disability: A visual condition that interferes with a person's ability to see or results in the absence of sight.

cognitive impairment: A medical condition or injury that affects a person's ability to understand spoken or written information.

communication disability: A medical condition or injury that interferes with a person's ability to communicate by using one's voice.

deafness/hearing disability: A medical condition or injury that interferes with a person's ability to hear sounds.

emergency health information card: An emergency health information card communicates to rescuers what they need to know about you if they find you unconscious or incoherent, or if they need to quickly help evacuate you. It contains information about your medications, adaptive equipment, blood type, allergies and sensitivities, insurance numbers, social security number, immunization dates, communication difficulties and preferred treatment, as well as contact information for your health providers, personal support network and emergency contacts.

evacuation assistive equipment: Equipment or devices used to help people leave a building in an emergency.

mobility disability: A medical condition or injury that impedes a person's ability to walk or move.

personal assessment: A written list of your needs as well as your resources for meeting those needs in an environment affected by a disaster.

personal care assistance: The help you accept from someone to meet your daily personal needs (bathing, dressing, grooming, cooking, feeding).

personal support network/self-help team: A group of people who will help you at your home, school, workplace, volunteer site or any other location in which you spend a lot of time. Members of your support network can include roommates, relatives, neighbors, friends and co-workers you trust. Your network must be able to check if you need assistance, know your capabilities and needs, and be able to help you within minutes.

power-dependent equipment: Equipment that requires electricity to operate.

service animal: A specially-trained animal used by a person with a disability to help with daily living. These animals are allowed by law to accompany their owners anywhere.

warning: A "warning" means that the event is happening now, is going to happen, or has been observed on weather radar. You must act immediately to protect yourself.

watch: A "watch" means that severe weather is threatening and may occur in your area. Listen to the radio or watch television for information and advice.