City of Ottawa Accessibility spotlight- February 2024

 

Emergency Preparedness for Persons with Disabilities Event

The City of Ottawa recently hosted a virtual public information session and discussion on emergency preparedness for persons with disabilities. Coordinated by the Accessibility Office, the session included presentations from staff in the Office of Emergency Management and Ottawa Public Health who provided information and resources with a focus on key emergency preparedness considerations for those living with disabilities and older adults. There has been an increase in climate-related emergencies in recent years, including heavy winds and tornadoes, heavy rainfall and flooding, as well as extreme cold and heat events. Additionally, as the City of Ottawa is the Nation’s Capital, political demonstrations and protests have also contributed to various recent emergency events and responses. As such, when planning for emergencies, whether that requires sheltering in place or evacuating, all residents, including those with disabilities, should consider emergency planning that is tailored to their personal situation. During the event, staff in the Office of Emergency Management highlighted the importance of social connections and personal support, having a plan for assistive devices, including back-up options in the event of a power outage, as well as considerations for the management of your health, including ensuring you have an adequate supply of medication. Staff in Ottawa Public Health presented on the diversity of our personal experiences, and that emergency preparedness is not "one size fits all". Staff provided considerations for either sheltering in place or evacuating, such as providing emergency contacts with extra keys to be able to access your home, as well as important elements to include in your emergency kit and/or a go bag, including supplies needed for pets and service animals. Following the presentations, participants had the opportunity to engage with City staff with concerns, questions and feedback on the topic. Staff in the City’s Accessibility Office will be compiling all feedback, shared during the event, the evaluation survey and post-event, for discussion with the Office of Emergency Management and Ottawa Public Health to inform future actions. For those unable to attend the virtual event live, you can watch the recording on the City’s YouTube channel.

Snow Angel Program

A Snow Angel is a neighbour or friend who volunteers to help older adults or persons with disabilities improve their accessibility during the winter by shoveling and/or de-icing their private driveway, steps, or walkway. Snow Angels generate a sense of community by lending a helping hand. "My snow angel is a neighbour who works 12-hours shifts, and still finds the time and energy to ensure I am safe and that my steps and walkway are cleared and salted. She does not tell me or ask for gratitude. Although we received so much snow and it was very windy, somehow that path stayed clear for 2 days. I felt protected, safe, cared for and so very grateful. She works in security downtown, keeping other people safe too. I am disabled and falls for me are very serious. I am glad to have someone who is helping and looking out for me like this." - J Wilson The Snow Angel Program recognizes these shoveling and de-icing efforts with a certificate of appreciation signed by Mayor Sutcliffe. If you know a Snow Angel and would like to show them your appreciation, please visit ottawa.ca/snowangel to nominate them. Nominations close March 31, 2024. If you’re looking to get involved and make a difference in your community, contact communitypride@ottawa.ca to learn more.

Text us at 57272

Looking for a quick answer to a question about Para Transpo service? Para Transpo customers can text 57272 to connect with OC Transpo Customer Service representatives from 6am to 12:30am every day! Standard rates apply. Text us to: Find out the estimated arrival time of your upcoming Para Transpo vehicle Make a direct cancellation for an upcoming trip Ask general questions about Para Transpo service Simply send a text message to 57272. You’ll receive a reply asking you to select your language and service before being connected to a Customer Service representative. Find out more at octranspo.com

Longest-Serving Para Transpo Operator retires after 45 years

In February, OC Transpo’s longest serving Para Transpo operator handed in her keys for the last time. After 45 years behind the wheel, Para Transpo operator Trish is celebrating a successful career helping Para Transpo customers get to where they need to be, with a smile. The Next Stop Blog Team caught up with Trish on her last day of work to reflect on her time with Para Transpo and what her secret was to achieving a successful and fulfilling career. Read the whole story on octranspo.com