Storm emphasizes need for seniors, disabled to plan ahead for emergencies

Though town officials encouraged older residents and people with disabilities to register for an emergency notification system last fall, the system, which would have helped people with special needs, wasn't set up in time for the March nor'easter.

Jacky Schofield, chairwoman of the First Selectman's Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities, which launched last year, said there wasn't enough personnel to feed information into a computer system. If the system had been in place, the town could have contacted the residents in advance, making sure they had arrangements or assistance, she said.

"Anybody who was here two weeks ago for that storm and saw the ... totally unexpected devastation that took place should recognize that if they have any problems with mobility and getting themselves somehow to a shelter, this registry is going to be very important to them," Schofield said.

The campaign also encouraged residents to consider alternatives if a family member or neighbor who normally looks out for them isn't available.

"What we're promoting is the idea that everyone should have a plan to take care of yourselves," Schofield said.

Schofield said town officials will be meeting Wednesday to discuss the status of the system.

The Greenwich Chapter of the American Red Cross also helped the town's vulnerable residents, having volunteers check on them, said Tim Wall, the agency's director of emergency services. Aside from going door-to-door at the senior residences, volunteers also checked on people based on requests that came through the town, such as a Virginia resident who called to find out about an elderly parent.

Some residents were given meals, while others used the Transportation Association of Greenwich to go to an emergency shelter. Some were moved to The Nathaniel Witherell nursing home, Wall said.

The health department also has a short list of about 20 residents with special needs, who have no caregiver, and it contacted those people before and after the storm, said Health Director Caroline Calderone Baisley. The department's program has been in place for many years, and residents on the list have been interviewed about their needs, she said.

Wall said the big issue for the town will be how to enhance communication, especially when power and phone lines fail. It also served as an emphasis for emergency preparedness.

"You need to be ready for anything at any time," Wall said.

Staff Writer Lisa Chamoff can be reached at lisa.chamoff@scni.com or 625-4439.