Let's Talk About Personal Safety and Crisis Management for Individuals who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing
1. Scenario: There’s been an emergency and I need to reach 9-1-1
1.1. Did you know you can text 9-1-1?
1.2. Important to use your phone’s default texting app (service may not be available in external messaging applications such as Instagram or WhatsApp)
1.3. Watch this informative video
1.3.1. Click here
1.4. Click the link and check it out to verify if the service is available in your area
1.4.1. If you send a text and the service is not available in the area you’re in, you will receive an automated “bounce back” message
1.4.1.1. New requests for service must be honored within 6 months. To make a request, Google Search "emergency communications center non-emergency number [town, state]" and contact the call center using their **non-emergency line**
1.4.1.1.1. You may need to ask for assistance if this non-emergency line is not D/HH accessible
2. Scenario: I am dealing with a severe crisis
2.1. This can include issues such as abuse, bullying, relationship issues, discrimnination, family issues, financial problems, self-harm ideations, violence or concern for your or someone else’s safety, depression/anxiety, and many others
2.2. You might need help for yourself or for someone else
2.3. Open the link to explore a chat lifeline
2.3.1. There are options for call and text, plus a Deaf/HoH button at the top that connects you via video chat
2.4. Or ASL users can try this crisis intervention website specifically for individuals who are Deaf/HoH or DeafBlind
2.5. If you're thinking about reaching out but doubt whether your concern qualifies for assistance, reach out anyway. These services will never judge or punish you for asking for help for any reason!
3. Scenario: There’s a fire or carbon monoxide emergency at my residence
3.1. Various types of adapted alerting devices are available for individuals who are D/HH
3.2. Options can include modified sound frequencies, strobe lights, and bed shakers
3.3. Accessories can be purchased at websites such as:
3.3.1. lifetonesafety.com
3.3.2. safeawake.com
3.3.3. silentcall.com
4. Scenario: I've been pulled over or approached by a police officer
4.1. #1 thing to remember: for your safety, keep your hands visible at all times, no sudden movements
4.2. Quickly let them know about your hearing challenges right away and that you require accommodations for successful communication
4.2.1. Remember that difficulties may arise even if you're not expecting them (ex: you may become nervous/panicked, making communication more strained)
4.2.2. Is it dark outside? Is the officer using a flashlight?
4.2.3. Is there a lot of background noise from the road (honking, cars whizzing by, sirens, etc)?
4.2.4. Does the officer have an accent?
4.2.5. Do you require certain technology or interpretation support in order to communicate effectively?
4.3. Use a version of this print-out if helpful for effective communication
4.3.1. Open document
4.4. Watch this informative video
4.4.1. Click here