Danish individuals with disabilities call for better emergency preparedness plans

Janus Tarp relies on a ventilator for a third of the day to assist him with breathing while he sleeps. The ventilator requires electricity, as do his bed, wheelchair, and the machine that humidifies the air before it reaches his lungs. This reliance on power makes it impossible for him to be without electricity for three days, contrary to the recommendation from emergency management organizations.

In addition to his concerns about electricity, Tarp worries about how he will receive physical assistance if a crisis forces his daily caregivers to return to their families. He expresses uncertainty, stating there are many unanswered questions, and admits to delaying thinking about the issue as he hopes a crisis will not occur. Tarp states, “If I am to have peace of mind, I just need some information.”

The Danish Handicapped Organizations believe individuals with disabilities have been overlooked in the emergency preparedness plans sent to all Danes. Their chairman, Thorkild Olesen, emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive plan. In early August, the organization reached out to emergency management authorities, yet when a pamphlet titled “Prepared for Crises” was released in late August, numerous questions remained unanswered.

Olesen advocates for the formation of a fast-tracked working group to address these concerns. Tarp, who is also the chief legal officer at Slagelse Municipality, expressed discontent over the lack of information regarding individuals with special needs in official guidelines. He suggests that authorities should provide more insights and resources, such as phone numbers and websites for further questions.

Johan Zilmer-Bülow from the emergency management agency acknowledged the concerns and confirmed that discussions with relevant organizations have taken place. He advised Tarp to engage with the authorities he regularly communicates with for further guidance.