RISNER - My Emergency Plan | Workbook

RISNER is a database created by the Rhode Island Department of Health to help first responders better serve Rhode Islanders with disabilities during emergencies. The database provides important information that allows emergency personnel to prepare for and respond to a variety of individual needs promptly. By registering for RISNER, you are assisting first responders to provide accessible communication and appropriate assistance.  

When you call 911, providing your name and home address allows the dispatcher to access your RISNER registration. A notification will appear indicating that you are Deaf, Deafblind, hard of hearing or have other communication or accessibility needs. The dispatcher can then inform first responders before they arrive, helping them prepare any necessary communication tools, accommodations, or other accessibility equipment to better assist you during the emergency.  

There are three ways to sign up for RISNER. 

1.  Online: Visit www.health.ri.gov/emregistry and complete the registration form. Once submitted, your information will be entered into the 911 database.  
2. Phone: Call the Rhode Island Department of Health at 4012225960. A staff member will ask you the questions on the registration form and enter your information into the database for you.  
3. Mail: Download and print the registration form, complete it, then mail it to   

Rhode Island Department of Health - RISNER
3 Capitol Hill. Providence, RI 02908 

After your registration is processed, your information will be available to 911 dispatchers and first responders to help them better meet your communication and accessibility needs during an emergency.  

Yes, your information is secure and confidential. Access to your RISNER registration is limited to you, authorized staff within the RISNER program at the RI Department of Health, and first responders that may need the information during an emergency.  

The database is HIPAA compliant, and your information is protected from unauthorized access. Your personal information cannot be sold and is not available to the public.

The RISNER database was created specifically for Rhode Islanders with disabilities. The registration form has a variety of questions designed to help identify your communication, accessibility, and support needs during an emergency.  

Information can be updated in three ways.  

1.  Online: Sign into your account online to update your information at any time.  
2. Phone: Call RISNER at 4012225960 and a staff member will assist you with updating your registration information.  
3. Mail: You may request that RISNER mail you a registration form or download and print the form yourself. Complete the form with your updated information and mail it to:  

Rhode Island Department of Health - RISNER
3 Capitol Hill. Providence, RI 02908 

Keeping your information up to date helps ensure that 911 dispatchers and first responders have accurate information about your communication and accessibility needs during an emergency.  

RISNER conducts an annual review and will contact registered individuals each year to confirm that their information is accurate and up to date. Keeping your information current helps ensure that 911 dispatchers and first responders have the information they need to assist you during an emergency.  

Yes. RISNER is a state program administered by the Rhode Island Department of Health and is funded through state resources. There is no fee to register, update your information, or remain enrolled in the database.