RIEMA urges special needs registration

CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) - With the potential Hurricane Earl could impact Rhode Island, the Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Health is urging people with special needs to enroll in the state's Special Needs Emergency Registry .

RIEMA says anyone who uses life-sustaining medical equipment or takes life-sustaining medications should register before the storm, which is forecast to make its closest pass late Friday.

The registry serves as a reliable way to identify people with special needs during an emergency, when power has been cut. Local and state emergency management will share the information with local police and fire departments.

People can register three ways:

• By Phone, call 222-4616 / RI Relay 711
• Online at www.health.ri.gov/emregistry
• Mailing completed registration form to RIEMA

Family members can register loved ones, if they are unable to do so themselves. Each person with special needs in the same household should complete their own registry form.

One a person is enrolled, they will receive a special "go kit," which includes additional information on preparing for an emergency.