Preparing for Hurricane Season: Accessibility Considerations for Emergency Planning

July 17, 2026

Hurricane season is a reality for everyone living in Florida, but for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, preparing for severe weather often requires additional planning. Power outages, changing environments, transportation disruptions, and emergency alerts can all present unique challenges during a storm.


The good news is that taking a few proactive steps before hurricane season begins can help you stay safe, maintain your independence, and reduce stress when a storm is approaching.

Here are some important accessibility considerations to include in your hurricane preparedness plan.


Build an Accessible Emergency Kit

Every household should have an emergency supply kit, but it's important to organize yours in a way that is easy to access without relying on sight.


Your kit should include:

  • At least seven days of medications
  • Bottled water (one gallon per person, per day)
  • Nonperishable food
  • Flashlights with extra batteries
  • Portable phone chargers or power banks
  • First aid supplies
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Cash in small bills
  • Important phone numbers written in large print, braille, or stored digitally


Store frequently used items in consistent locations and consider using tactile labels or braille labels to identify medications and supplies quickly.


Keep Your Technology Charged

Many individuals who are blind or visually impaired rely heavily on smartphones and assistive technology for communication, navigation, and accessing information.


Before a storm:

  • Fully charge all devices.
  • Charge portable battery packs.
  • Keep charging cables together in one location.
  • Test backup batteries for braille displays or other assistive devices.
  • Download maps and important documents for offline access.


If you use electronic magnifiers, video magnifiers, or other powered equipment, consider how you'll access them if electricity is unavailable for several days.


Stay Connected to Emergency Alerts

Receiving timely weather updates is critical.


Sign up for local emergency alerts through your county's emergency management office and make sure your phone is configured to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA).


Many smartphones also include built-in accessibility features that allow emergency notifications to be read aloud through VoiceOver (iPhone) or TalkBack (Android).


A NOAA Weather Radio with voice alerts can provide additional information if internet or cellular service becomes unreliable.


Plan Your Evacuation Route

If evacuation becomes necessary, knowing your plan ahead of time can save valuable time.


Ask yourself:

  • Do I know my evacuation zone?
  • How will I get there?
  • Who can assist me if transportation is needed?
  • Do I know the location of accessible shelters?


If you use public transportation or paratransit services, learn how those services operate during hurricane evacuations and register in advance if required.


Share your evacuation plan with family members, neighbors, or trusted friends so everyone understands where you'll be going.


Prepare for Power Outages

Power outages often last longer than the storm itself.


Consider how you'll manage if electricity is unavailable for several days.


Think about:

  • Refrigerated medications
  • Charging accessible devices
  • Lighting inside your home
  • Cooking meals safely
  • Accessing emergency information


Battery-operated lanterns often provide safer, longer-lasting light than candles.


Voice-controlled smart speakers may also become unavailable during internet outages, so have backup communication methods ready.


Protect Important Documents

Store essential documents in waterproof containers or resealable plastic bags.


Important items may include:

  • Identification
  • Insurance information
  • Medical records
  • Emergency contact lists
  • Prescription information
  • Social Security or disability documentation


Digital copies stored securely in cloud storage can provide an additional backup if physical documents are damaged.


Don't Forget Your Mobility Equipment

If you use a white cane, guide dog, or other mobility aids, include them in your emergency planning.


For white cane users:

  • Carry an extra cane tip.
  • Keep a backup cane if available.
  • Inspect your cane before hurricane season begins.


For guide dog handlers:

  • Pack several days of food and water.
  • Bring medications and veterinary records.
  • Include waste bags and familiar comfort items.
  • Ensure identification tags are current.


Many emergency shelters welcome service animals, but bringing documentation can help make the process smoother.


Register for Special Needs Assistance

Many Florida counties offer Special Needs Registries for residents who may need assistance during emergencies.


Depending on your circumstances, registration may help emergency officials identify transportation needs or provide additional support during evacuations.


Contact your local emergency management agency before hurricane season begins to learn what services are available in your area.


Stay Connected with Your Support Network

Even if you live independently, it's important to have people who know your emergency plan.


Choose at least two trusted contacts who can:

  • Check in before and after storms
  • Help with evacuation if necessary
  • Provide updates if communication is limited
  • Assist with supplies if needed


Likewise, let them know how best to reach you if cell service becomes unreliable.


Practice Your Plan

Emergency preparedness works best when you've practiced it before you need it.

Take time to:

  • Locate emergency supplies.
  • Review evacuation routes.
  • Test accessible apps and emergency alerts.
  • Confirm important phone numbers.
  • Practice packing your emergency bag.


The more familiar your plan becomes, the easier it will be to respond calmly during an actual emergency.


Lighthouse Is Here to Help

At the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast & Okeechobee, we understand that emergency preparedness looks different for every individual.


Through our Orientation & Mobility, Independent Living, and Assistive Technology programs, we help participants build practical skills that support confidence and independence year-round, including during hurricane season.


If you or a loved one would like assistance learning accessible technology, developing independent living skills, or preparing for emergencies, we're here to help.



With thoughtful planning and the right resources, you can face hurricane season with greater confidence and peace of mind. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.