Thank you for publishing the article on the effective use of speech-language pathologists and audiologists during and following a disaster. I have served as the public information officer of my local Office of Emergency Management (OEM), in addition to working as an SLP. One of the most difficult jobs an agency such as OEM or first responders must deal with is planning and organizing the care and evacuation of those with special needs.
New Jersey has now instituted a Web site where individuals, businesses, and facilities can register to assist with this planning. The new site is www.registerready.nj.gov. Those who do not have a computer can call the 2-1-1 information line or contact their local OEM for assistance. The information provided is confidential and is viewed only by those submitting the information or by the agencies that plan the resources necessary for each case. We are hopeful that other states are in the process of developing this program.
I would encourage members of our profession to inform their employers and clients to register with appropriate agencies within their states. Emergencies can happen at any time and well-informed agencies can move more efficiently to save lives and reduce injury and property damage when given sufficient time to plan.
Warren Crescenzo
Vineland, New Jersey