As the Pacific Palisades and Eaton fires began last week, Jo-Marie Lawrence was watching a movie in Burbank with her friend when the mall lost power. That meant Lawrence, a quadriplegic actor and wheelchair user, and her friend, who also uses a wheelchair, could not use the elevators. They were atop a flight of about 70 steps and the manager didn’t have a plan to get them to safety.
For people with disabilities, emergencies like wildfires can pose unique challenges. They may require medications, specialized medical equipment, or specially prepared foods that may not be accessible in emergency situations. Some individuals may also need help navigating evacuation routes or find it difficult to access safe spaces.
Lawrence, who lives alone, recounted her experience waiting for help to arrive during the fires. “People were offering to carry us, but it was pretty steep. And we were like, ‘We don’t really know who you are or trust you,’” she said.
The experience of Lawrence and other individuals with disabilities highlights the need for individual emergency plans and community support. Experts emphasize that disaster preparedness measures should prioritize accessibility and inclusivity.
According to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the mortality rate for people with disabilities during natural disasters is two to four times higher than the general population. Among those confirmed dead in the wildfires so far, several were known to have disabilities or mobility issues.
Anthony Mitchell, 67, was an amputee and wheelchair user who lived with his son Justin, who has cerebral palsy, in Altadena. Rory Callum Sykes, 32, a former child star born blind and with cerebral palsy, died at his family’s Mount Malibu TV Studios estate. Carolyn Burns, 56, who was bedridden, died in her home from smoke inhalation.
Experts stress the need for first responders and governments to better plan for the inclusion of people with disabilities in evacuation efforts. In a crisis, factors like gridlock are impossible for emergency responders to predict. A checklist is being developed by June Kailes, a Los Angeles-based disability policy consultant and member of the federal government’s Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response advisory committee focusing on disability and disasters. The checklist, which starts with asking a trusted neighbor to help evacuate if needed, aims to empower individuals with disabilities to make informed decisions and take control during emergencies.
Currently, there are resources available for disabled survivors, including the disability-led Disability and Disaster Hotline at 1-800-626-4959, the American Red Cross shelter locator, and Disability Disaster Access and Resources.
