Brunswick registry helps ID residents with additional needs

Brunswick County residents with access and functional needs may register for assistance this hurricane season through a county registry.

The Brunswick County Access and Functional Needs (AFN) Registry helps emergency responders identify individuals who may have additional needs in functional areas before, during, and after an emergency event such as a hurricane.

The database is compliant with medical privacy laws and helps emergency responders ensure faster and more effective support during a disaster for those in need of additional assistance.

Brunswick County’s Emergency Medical Services and Emergency Management departments are encouraging all residents with access and functional needs to register for assistance this hurricane season.

Emergency officials will use the ReadyBrunswick Emergency Notification System to simultaneously contact registrants with information related to a specific emergency event. Once contacted, individuals will be asked to share their status, evacuation plans, and anticipated needs for that specific event.

Brunswick County’s Emergency Medical Services and Emergency Management departments recommend enrollment in the AFN Registry for individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Have physical, developmental, or intellectual disabilities.
• Use mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, walkers or canes.
• Rely on medical equipment or assistance devices such as oxygen tanks or ventilators.
• Have chronic health conditions that require regular care or medication.
• Have visual, hearing, or speech impairments.
• Experience cognitive or mental health challenges such as dementia, severe anxiety, or autism.
• Need help with daily living activities, including eating, bathing or dressing.
• Lack reliable transportation or are unable to drive due to age, disability, or financial hardship.
• Are elderly and live alone, or are socially isolated.
• Are temporarily injured or recovering from surgery.

AFN Registry sign-up is voluntary and registrants can opt out at any time. Information provided in the registry is strictly confidential and will be used only in an emergency.

For additional information visit Brunswick County’s Assistance webpage or contact Brunswick County EMS at 910-253-2850.

For assistance with signing up for ReadyBrunswick and the AFN Registry, email Brunswick County Emergency Management at emergency.management@brunswickcountync.gov or call 910-253-5383.