Being prepared for disasters and emergencies is important for everyone, but it can be even more critical for special needs individuals, who may rely on the assistance of others during an emergency. A new publication developed by a team of emergency management and health professionals addresses the unique preparedness considerations of individuals with functional needs and their caregivers. "Emergency Preparedness Tips for Those with Functional Needs" offers preparedness tips for people with visual, cognitive, or mobility impairments; citizens who are deaf or hard of hearing; those who utilize service animals or life support systems; and seniors. Please click here to view the publication.

If your idea for a disaster preparedness public service announcement is selected, your high school could win $10,000! Sponsored by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the Illinois Broadcasters Association, the Ready Illinois High School Challenge is open to Illinois high school students, both individuals and teams. Entrants submit scripts for a 30-second public service announcement, appropriate for radio or television, that addresses disaster preparedness measures and directs listeners/viewers to the Ready Illinois website. Learn more.