Disability Resources

Students Using Wheelchairs or Scooter

Experience is often the best teacher. The following ideas and suggestions have been gleaned from the collective knowledge of students over the years.

• Have a flashlight easily accessible in the event of a power outage or other emergency.
• Have a cell phone to make emergency phone calls. Keep a list of important telephone numbers including those of friends, Personal Assistants and wheelchair repair services. For physical access problems on campus the number for Facility Management's Trouble calls is 726-8262.
• Keep a phone in easy reach of your bed in the event that a personal assistant doesn't show up or for emergencies.
• Have a tire pump available for wheelchairs that use inner tubes. (The equipment window in Rec Sports does have an air pump that has been used during their open hours.)
• Know evacuation procedures for all campus buildings including residence halls.
• If needed, locate accessible bathrooms on campus. See which ones work best for you.
• Plan ahead by considering how to handle problems that may arise from weather, transportation difficulties of other factors that may delay your class attendance.
• Immediately notify Facilities Management and DR regarding issues of accessibility on campus. They are often not aware of an accessibility issue until students notify their offices. Usually Facilities Management can provide the best assistance.
• If you can't find an accessible parking spot (handicapped parking) on campus you can park at meters free of charge with your permit or license plate.
• If needed, DR will work with Facilities Management to find storage for scooters or wheelchairs that will be used on a daily basis.
• If you have mechanical problems with your chair or scooter, Kirby Student Center can loan a wheelchair or scooter on a temporary basis while your equipment is being repaired.
• Let DR know which of your classrooms don't have accessible writing surfaces and they will arrange with Facilities Management to place an accessible table in the room.