IoT-Based Framework to Enhance Emergency Communication for People with Disabilities

Disasters disproportionately affect individuals with disabilities, who face significant challenges in communication, movement, and evacuation during emergencies. This study explores the barriers to disaster preparedness for individuals with disabilities. Using a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys and interviews, the research identifies several key challenges: limited access to inclusive communication tools, inconsistent awareness of emergency policies, and varying confidence in responders' capacity to effectively assist individuals with disabilities. The findings highlight the need for greater inclusion of disabled individuals in disaster planning processes and underscore the importance of personalized, multimodal alert systems that cater to their specific needs during emergencies. By focusing on case studies from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the study also examines how local contexts influence emergency preparedness and the inclusion of disabled populations. In response, this paper introduces an IoT-based framework that integrates vibration, visual, and GPS-enabled alerts to enhance communication and ensure timely, accessible information during crises. The framework’s design is rooted in user feedback, aligning with the principles of inclusive design to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive tailored alerts in emergency situations. This framework paves the way for more inclusive disaster response systems, enhancing preparedness and response for vulnerable populations in future emergencies.