As Louisiana enters the peak of hurricane season, the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf (LCD) is emphasizing the critical importance of emergency preparedness for all residents, with a specific focus on ensuring communication access and support for the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing community.
Being prepared is paramount when it comes to hurricane season in Louisiana. We want to ensure every Louisianian has a ‘Game Plan,’ and that includes providing accessible information and resources for our citizens who are d/Deaf, DeafBlind, and hard of hearing.
The Louisiana Commission for the Deaf encourages residents to visit GetAGamePlan.org, a comprehensive resource for hurricane preparedness in Louisiana. Key steps include:
- Making a Plan: Develop an evacuation plan and identify safe locations.
- Building a Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, and first-aid items.
- Staying Informed: Monitor weather updates from reliable sources.
For the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing community, the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf has created a public service announcement in American Sign Language (ASL) providing vital information on hurricane terms, preparation steps, and what to do before, during and after a storm. Watch here: https://youtu.be/7c6dedmVPW4?si=wnLS0WYhHKQI3-lL.
Other crucial support services available for hurricane aftermath recovery:
- Operation Blue Roof: Provides temporary roofing solutions for damaged homes.
- Louisiana 988 Lifeline: Offers 24/7 emotional support for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing through ASL videophone, online chat, text, or TTY services.
- DeafLEAD: Provides 24-hour crisis intervention, advocacy, case management, interpreting, and mental health services specifically designed for d/Deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind, and late-deafened individuals and their families. Their 24-hour crisis line is (321) 800-3323.
- Louisiana Interpreting Agencies: Find Deaf agencies nearby by viewing this list of Louisiana interpreting agencies.
The Louisiana Commission for the Deaf encourages all Louisianians to take proactive steps to prepare for hurricane season and utilize the available resources to ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones.