How often are you and all your loved ones gathered in the same place at the same time? For most of us, it’s probably not even once a year.
But even if an annual event brings the entire family together, that means the odds against you all being in the same place when a disaster strikes are about 365 to 1.
And that means unless the coming crisis occurs on the one day of the year when you’re all gathered together, you’re going to need a way to communicate with your loved ones.
You will need to tell some folks where to gather. And inform others that you are all right. Or that you need help in a hurry.
Busy signals await
If everyone’s cellphone is working and charged, this might not be a big problem. But it’s very possible a major emergency could render cellphones useless.
Even if those cellphones are working, all the circuits could be busy in the immediate aftermath of a tragedy.
The Federal Communications Commission suggests that emailing and texting could be a better alternative to trying to place a phone call.
If you have to leave your home due to the problem, have your landline calls forwarded to your cellphone. Change your voicemail greeting to let loved ones know where you are and that you are safe.
Anticipate the challenges
The time to make a post-disaster family communication plan is now. Not after an emergency happens. This plan should take into account all contingencies. Especially the possibility that normal communication tactics may not work.
Step 1 – Determine a meeting place for loved ones in your area.
Actually, make that several meeting places in case the first couple of locations prove to be unreachable. Everyone should know where these places are and their priority order.
Also, learn the emergency response policies of places where your loved ones might be when a disaster strikes. Including workplaces and schools.
Step 2 – Make sure everyone has personal information on a piece of paper in their wallet and on their phone.
This information should include full name, home address and phone number, plus work or school address and phone number.
As well as parents or children’s/grandchildren’s names and phone numbers, an out-of-town relative or friend’s address and phone number, and a list of personal health-related issues including allergies.
Step 3 – Use alternative communication methods.
Among them are two-way radios with a range of about 30 miles and CB radios such as what truckers have used for many years. You could also install a CB base unit in your home.
Unlike modern cordless phones, a rotary dial phone will work even in a power outage. And old-school method is to post notes on bulletin boards in public places.
Step 4 – Contact a non-governmental organization or foundation that has free services.
This way you can connect with family members when communication lines are down. Also, prior to a disaster, register with a next of kin registry. This service can help you connect with relatives following a disaster.
Don’t forget to have your lifeline ready
Last and most important, remember to keep your cellphone as charged as possible at all times. Especially if you’re headed out the door and might not be able to charge it again soon.
It’s crucial to get in the habit of keeping your electronic devices fully charged. You never know what might happen. And having a phone on hand when you need to call for help could make the difference between life and death.
Now, you may be asking, how can I make a call if the power is out and my cellphone is dying? You’re right. You’d be stranded.
That’s why portable, backup power is downright essential in an emergency. As mentioned previously, communication is critical to survival. Your phone isn’t any help to you if it’s dead.
My top recommendation to keep on hand is the Patriot Power Cell. This pocket-sized power plant charges in the sun with a built-in solar panel. So you’ll never have to worry about the internal battery wearing out.
With a pair of USB ports, you can charge two electronic devices at once. Including your cellphone. It features a “ruggedized” design that repels water and protects against drops. It even includes a flashlight.
The Patriot Power Cell has become so popular that most people buy them in 4-packs. That way they can keep two at home and the others in their vehicles. Or give a couple to family members.
