The objective of ON THIN ICE is to protect lives and improve the security, well-being, and inclusion of persons with disabilities (physical, cognitive and sensory) and other vulnerable populations in the Arctic. More specifically, this project seeks to:
• Foster inclusion of and active living among persons with disabilities;
• Encourage regulatory compliance with relevant legislation, conventions
, codes, and emergency protocols that protect the rights and safety of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups;
• Adapt international best practices in emergency management and disaster relief for persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups to the unique geographical, cultural, and climatic situation of the far North;
• Increase public awareness and access to information on creating accessible environments, disability inclusive emergency preparedness strategies;
• Develop effective, as well as culturally- and linguistically-appropriate communication tools;
• Enhance emergency preparedness through disability inclusive emergency management exercise workshops and simulations;
• Improve the capacity of persons with disabilities to sustain their own lives and well-being in an emergency until help arrives;
• Initiate a participatory program for disability inclusive emergency management in Northern schools. ON THIN is funded by the Government of Canada's Social Development Partnerships Program and managed by the Global Alliance on Accessible Technologies and Environments.
