Phone

One of the worst things that can occur during and following a disaster is the loss of communications with family members, friends, and loved ones. Making plans and preparations regarding communications should be a vital part of your overall plan.

Communications Preparations
  • Do not count on your cell phone. Increased traffic on cell phone networks can quickly overload wireless capacity
  • Record an out-going message on your cell phone voicemail so that callers can be reassured of your safety
  • Long-distance phone lines often work before local phone lines so identify an out-of-state contact and provide this person with the contact information with the people you want to keep informed of your situation. Share this information with family and friends locally
  • Avoid making non-urgent phone calls after a disaster even if phone lines are un-damaged. Increased phone calls can jam phone circuits
  • Keep coins in your Go-Bag. Payphones are more likely to work before other phone lines
  • Cordless phones require electricity. Make sure you have a backup phone that does not require electricity