Office of Emergency Management

Special Needs

People who are visually impaired, on oxygen, in a wheelchair or have other mobility issues may need help during a disaster or community crisis. Here are some guidelines on forming a disaster preparedness plan for people with disabilities and other special needs:

  • Organize a network of people who can help you at places where you spend a lot of time (home, work, school, etc.)
  • Identify safe places to go during a disaster (tornado, flood, fire, earthquake, hurricane). Example: During a tornado, the safest place in your home may be a basement or a room without windows
  • Keep your service animals with you at a safe place at home or in a shelter
  • Locate the main utility cutoff valves and switches in your home. Make sure you and the people in your network learn how and when to disconnect utilities during an emergency
  • Identify as many exits as possible from each room and building you are in. Be sure to include the windows as exits
  • Make a floor plan of your home and include your primary escape routes
  • Prepare an evacuation plan before a disaster happens
  • Decide what type of equipment you would need during an evacuation
  • Be ready to give brief, clear and specific instructions to rescue personnel. If necessary, write down what you would say
  • Choose an alternative place to stay
  • Have a plan for your pet

The American Red Cross has more information on disaster preparedness for people with special needs and concerns. To learn more, click here.

The Mayor's Office of Emergency Management and Nashville Electric Service has partnered to create a special needs database that will notify emergency personnel in the event of an evacuation or disaster. To register or for more information, contact NES Customer Service at 736-6900.

FEMA and the American Red Cross have developed a Special Needs Awareness Program or SNAP for people who need special attention during an evacuation or disaster. To download a brochure, click here.

Emergency Numbers At A Glance

During major emergencies, the Mayor's Office of Emergency Management will activate a community hotline telephone number that will be promoted broadly on local television and radio stations.

You should only call 9-1-1 if police, fire or medical attention is needed in a life-threatening situation. For non-life-threatening emergencies, such as a traffic accident without injuries, call 862-8600.

Jammed phone lines are among the most common problems experienced in the first few hours of a disaster. So limit your calls by telling a friend or relative outside of the area about your condition, and then ask that friend or relative to call others you want to inform. Here are some other numbers to keep handy, in case of an emergency:

Metro Public Works 615-862-8700

Metro Water Services 615-862-4800

Nashville Electric Service 615-747-3911

Nashville Gas 615-734-0665

American Red Cross 615-250-4300