The registry is for any Rhode Islander who uses oxygen or insulin, a wheelchair, a prosthesis or an assistive breathing device; who is visually or hearing impaired; who has a Seeing-Eye or other assistive animal; or has a chronic health condition or other special needs.

Every Rhode Islander with special needs is urged to register or have a family member register on his or her behalf. It will help emergency responders and state planners to prepare for the needs of all Rhode Islanders, the officials said in a statement.

The registry’s confidential database is to be maintained by the RIEMA.

This updated version of the registry is a join effort between Lt. Govenor Roberts, Dr. David R. Gifford, the Health Department’s director, and Robert Warren, director of the RIEMA.

The trio had been scheduled to unveil details of the plan today (12-13-08) , but their announcement was postponed because of snow. That news conference and the registry’s official launch were rescheduled to 12-19-08

Above information from PBN article dated 12-13-08. 

Link to Online Version of Rhode Island Special Needs Emergency Registry

Requests for written forms or any additional information about the new R.I. Special Needs Emergency Registry will be available by calling the R.I. Emergency Management Agency 401-946-9996 during the normal business day.