Access and Functional Needs (AFN)

Emergency Managers know disasters can impact the community in disproportionate ways and this is especially true for people with access and functional needs. Access and Functional Needs (AFN) is a growing part of emergency preparedness and response. The CMIST Framework is a recommended approach for integrating the AFN of individuals who may need assistance with one or several of these areas: Communication, Maintaining Health, Independance, Support and Safety, and Transportation.

The purpose of the AFN program is to integrate equity and inclusion in all phases of emergency management. This is accomplished through a whole community approach with emergency planners, disability advocates, social and human service professionals, public health officials, and community leaders. This well create a more resilient La Crosse County where people with access and functional needs can plan for, respond to, and recover from all emergencies and disasters.

Why is this Important?

Your ability to recover from an emergency may depend on the planning and preparation you do today. Those with access and functional needs may have a harder time responding to and recovering from an emergency. If you or your loved one has AFN that could affect how they would react and respond to an emergency, you should ask the following question. 

How might a disaster affect me? What are my personal needs during a disaster? Could I get out of my home or apartment safely? Do I have a personal support system?

Regardless of your age, you don't want to go through an emergency alone. We all need someone we can lean on. Consider creating a support network that you can rely on - and they can rely on you - during a disaster. Your support network should:

• Stay in contact during an emergency.
• Check on each other immediately after an emergency. 
• Keep spare set of your keys.
• Know where your emergency supply kit is kept.
• Have copies of important documents, such as information about medication and dosage, equipment, and other needs.
• Learn about your personal needs and how to help you in an emergency.

Remember: your support network doesn't have to include family members; you can ask friends, neighbors, caregivers, coworkers, and/or members of your community groups, too. By evaluating your own individual needs, establishing a support network and making an emergency plan that fits those needs, you and your loved ones can be better prepared.

Making sure everyone in the community can receive important information about an emergency to act on and have information during non-emergency times is very important for a resilient community. The links below are additional information for AFN professionals and public to use for emergency preparedness.

One valuable resource, developed by the Wisconsin Council on Physical Disabilities, is the Be Prepared, Have A Plan: Emergency Preparedness Toolkit for Persons with Disabilities. This resource provides valuable information about preparing for and adapting to emergencies and natural disasters. The toolkit includes tips, checklists, forms, and other resources that are helpful for anyone but specifically tailored to individuals with disabilities. 

For more information and to view the toolkit online, visit: CPD: Emergency Preparedness Toolkit | Wisconsin Department of Health Services

Other Resources

Older adults:

Older Adults / Ready.gov

Prepare For Emergencies Now: Information for Older Americans / Ready.gov

Seniors: Prepare Now for an Emergency / FEMA.gov

10 Things to Include in a Senior Emergency Kit / AgingCare.com

Access and Functional Needs:

People with Disabilities / Ready.gov

Preparing Makes Sense for People with Disabilities / Ready.gov

Prepare your Pets for Disasters/ Ready.gov

Deaf Crisis Line - Disaster Distress Helpline

Deaf and Hard of Hearing: Disaster Tips

Mobility Disabilities: Disaster Tips

Medical Needs: Disaster Tips

Disaster Preparedness for Families with Food Allergies / Care.com Resources