Functional needs populations include individuals who may be more vulnerable because of immobility or their inability to take protective action. These individuals can include children, the elderly, migrant individuals/families, tourists, non-native English speakers, mobile home residents, and inmates. It may also include those who have disabilities, who live in institutionalized settings, who are transportation disadvantaged, or who are from diverse cultures.

These individuals may have additional needs before, during, and after an incident in functional areas, including maintaining independence, communication, transportation, supervision, and medical care. Knowing where these populations are located in your community is important so that additional measures can be taken as deemed necessary prior to and immediately following a hazard.