Accessible Features of an Emergency Shelter
An emergency shelter is a temporary living arrangement for people in need. Similar to homeless shelters, emergency shelters are intended to offer temporary housing for those in need. Those seeking emergency shelter should be aware that these facilities may not always be equipped for their needs. Fortunately, there are several options available. Read on to learn about the different types of emergency shelters and how you can find one that is right for you.
Accessible check-in location
An emergency shelter usually has a check-in area near the entrance. To make this area accessible, place a table at a height that wheelchair users can reach. An accessible route should connect the check-in area to the rest of the building, including the kitchen and other areas for people to relax. This route should also be wide enough to allow wheelchairs or scooters to pass through it.
Accessible entrance
An accessible entrance to an emergency shelter is an essential feature. This entrance should be wide and firm with no steps and a smooth surface that is safe for people with disabilities. The interior of the emergency shelter should also be accessible for wheelchairs and scooters. There should also be enough room for wheelchairs to turn around and a place to unload.
The accessible entrance to an emergency shelter should be located near the main entrance. It should have a sign directing people to it. If a shelter has a permanent reception desk, it should include a writing surface at a height that is accessible for all users. This can be part of the reception counter, a folding table, or an adjacent desk. A clip board can also be used.
Accessible public telephones
Emergency shelters should provide accessible public telephones in the areas where they provide service or activity. They should also provide a route to use these telephones. Text telephones (TTY) are another option, which can allow deaf individuals to communicate through the telephone. Regardless of the type of emergency, having an accessible public telephone can help shelters serve people of all abilities.
The 2010 Standards specify that wheelchair-accessible telephones must comply with Section 704.2 and Table 217.2. However, these standards do not require public telephones to be installed within reach-range requirements. This would impact the public because people with disabilities may not use such telephones or would have to stoop down to operate them. In addition, owners and operators would lose revenue.
Back-up power
In an emergency, backup power can be vital in providing safe shelter for residents. It can provide hot meals, a comfortable place to rest, and showers. It can also serve as a community meeting place. Here are some tips for preparing for such a scenario. Back-up power should be safe, and it should not cause any damage to the building or its contents.
If possible, use a battery-stored power system. This technology enables you to continue operating during power outages and has the added benefit of connecting to renewable energy sources, such as small-scale wind turbines or solar panels. The amount of time you can draw electricity depends on how large your battery bank is. The battery backup power system can also be used to power emergency mobile devices. This type of system can power cell phones and lights for a few hours.
Accessible route to shelter
The interior accessible route is the route that connects the accessible entrance to the activity and service areas. This route is typically made up of hallways, corridors, and interior rooms. This route is critical for people with disabilities who need assistance navigating a space. This route should be clear of objects that are not visible from the outside or are too high or too low for people to see.
An accessible route should include no more than two levels. The entrance should be at a height where people with disabilities can safely enter and exit without fear of falling. The accessible route should be marked with signs at critical decision points. It should also be free of steps, and there should be no abrupt level changes of more than half an inch. In addition, the accessible route should have a sloped hallway, ramps, and back-up electrical power.
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