Winter weather can change quickly, bringing extreme cold, snow, ice, and power outages that make it difficult—or unsafe—to leave home. Preparing ahead of time is especially important for people with disabilities, who may rely on medications, medical equipment, personal assistance, or accessible transportation.
Taking steps now can help you stay safe, warm, and supported if severe weather impacts our region.
How People with Disabilities Can Prepare for Winter Weather
Plan to stay home for several days
Keep at least 3–5 days of food, water, medications, and essential medical supplies on hand.
Prepare for power outages and extreme cold
Charge phones, backup batteries, and portable chargers. If you use powered medical equipment, identify backup options. Keep extra blankets, warm clothing, and supplies in an easily accessible place.
Manage medications and equipment
Refill prescriptions early when possible. Check that mobility devices, assistive technology, and medical equipment are working properly before bad weather arrives.
Plan for support and transportation disruptions
If you rely on personal care assistance, paratransit, or deliveries, talk with providers ahead of time about backup plans in case services are delayed or canceled.
Keep emergency contacts accessible
Write down important phone numbers and keep them somewhere easy to reach in case your phone loses power.
Stay informed
Monitor weather alerts and emergency updates from local and state agencies so you know what to expect and when to take action.
Trusted Emergency Preparedness Resources
- Maryland Department of Emergency Management – Winter Storms (https://mdem.maryland.gov/pages/winter-storms.aspx)
- Ready.gov – Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities (https://www.ready.gov/people-disabilities)
We’re Here to Help
If you need assistance with emergency preparedness, accessing resources, or planning for severe weather, Independence Now is here for you.
Phone: 301-277-2839
Email: info@innow.org
Preparing ahead can make all the difference. Stay safe, stay warm, and reach out if you need support.
