Traditional means of communication,
including cell phones, may be limited during
a widespread emergency situation. For this
reason, it is important that you identify
several different ways to communicate with
your family and friends.
Make sure the entire household knows emergency
contact information.
Long distance phone lines often work even when
local lines do not. Designate an out-of-state
contact person. Family members should call this
person to report their location if they cannot
reach each other. Prior to an emergency or
disaster, provide the contact person with
important names and numbers so they would be
able to assist in keeping others informed of
your situation.
Do not rely on using your cell phone because
cellular networks are often overwhelmed during
large-scale emergencies and disasters.
Text messaging on cell phones sometimes works
even when you cannot call out because it uses
less network resources.
Make sure you have at least one phone in your
house that does not require electricity to work.
Remember: cordless phones and most business
phone systems require electricity.
Avoid making non-emergency or unnecessary calls
during a large-scale emergency or disaster!
Telephone companies will sometimes provide
payphones (on trailers) to affected locations
until normal service can be restored. Keep coins
and important contact information in your
Go Bag.
Consider the use of amateur radio (ham radio) or
hand-held walkie-talkies, if other communication
means are not available.
