A DVD designed to give potentially life-saving advice on emergency planning to the deaf and hearing impaired was released today.
The initiative is the result of collaboration between Civil Defence and Deaf Aotearoa, and Disability Minister Tariana Turia says it is a welcome move.
“This DVD encourages those who are deaf or have significant hearing impairment to plan ahead for their specific requirements in an emergency,” she says.
“It focuses on developing an emergency plan with friends, family and neighbours.”
The information is provided in New Zealand Sign Language and is also captioned.
Civil Defence Minister John Carter says all New Zealanders need to be prepared and know what to do when disaster strikes.
“All individuals and communities have a responsibility to look after themselves and their loved ones for at least three days, possibly more, until help can get to them,” he says.
“The best way to get through an emergency event is to be prepared, and I can’t stress that enough.”
The DVD will be available from Deaf Aotearoa and online at www.deaf.org.nz and www.getthru.govt.nz.
Copies will also be distributed to all councils and libraries.
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