Emergency Preparedness Overview

The Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths and Adults is proud to announce an Emergency Preparedness Overview Training presented by Valerie Chmela on July 14, 2022 at 9:00AM-11:00AM CST via Zoom (link is under the information below). The training is being provided at no cost to attend and is open to anyone who is interested. LRID is an approved sponsor for continuing education activities. The professional studies program is offered for 0.20 RID CEUS at the Little/None Content Knowledge Level. 

Target audience: Support Service Providers, novice to experienced interpreters and community members.

Training Description:

This training will teach participants the importance of having an emergency and disaster preparedness plan for personal safety and its impact on their ability to provide support to others. The upcoming hurricane season is predicted to be more active than years passed with 14-21 named storms making landfall in the United States. Given the past several years of disastrous weather patterns it is very important that those in the interpreting field, who are often called to frontline duty, be aware of emergency and disaster planning. Therefore, everyone needs to be prepared and have a plan to save themselves and their families.

There are numerous emergency preparedness training programs for the general population. However, there are specific preparedness planning and strategies for DeafBlind individuals. Valerie Chmela with Helen Keller National Center has developed an emergency curriculum for the DeafBlind population. She has delivered this training across the country with various professionals, service providers, and community members. Not only is the curriculum for DeafBlind individuals, but it is also beneficial for interpreters, Support Service Providers (SSPs), and service providers to learn as well.