Aurora's Office of Emergency Management is compiling a database of residents with special needs so emergency planners can assist them more effectively during a large scale disaster. Residents can voluntarily submit information to the city, and the information will eventually be placed into a mapping system so planners can pinpoint locations where residents need extra help. Special needs include use of a wheelchair or ventilator, being deaf or hearing impaired, or could include any special circumstances that require additional assistance.

Aurora's database is one of the first in the region.

"It's a way for us to be proactive and help people who need special assistance," Aurora Fire Capt. Deanne Criswell said.

Residents who want to submit their special needs information can call 303-739-7636 and have a form mailed to them, or they can download the form by going to auroragov.org., clicking on the "Emergency Preparedness" quick link, then clicking on "Special Needs Registry."