Media Use and Information Needs of the Disabled During a Natural Disaster

This study examined differences in evacuation, crisis preparation, information-seeking patterns, and media use among the communities of disabled and non-disabled evacuees in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Surveys were collected from 554 Katrina evacuees temporarily relocated in different areas of the United States. Results indicate differences in crisis preparation and evacuation plans, with disabled subpopulations being more likely to prepare emergency supplies but less likely to have an evacuation plan. Differences between the disabled and non-disabled subpopulations also existed in information-seeking habits. Media use was similar between disabled and non-disabled respondents.