Keeping in Touch During a Disaster

  • Charge cell phones and extra batteries before predicted storms hit.
  • Program emergency contacts into cell phones.
  • Consider purchasing a car charger or solar charger for cell phones.
  • Text message or email instead of calling on cell phones to help alleviate network overuse.
  • Send short text messages on cell phones.  They are more likely to go through and will stay in queue until they can be sent.
  • Wait 10 seconds before redialing on cell phones to allow networks time to clear data.
  • Sometimes cell phones will not work during an extended power outage.
  • Keep phones and batteries dry.
  • Save cell phone batteries by using working land lines.
  • Make calls only in an emergency to keep land lines and networks as free as possible.
  • Remember land line cordless phones don’t work during a power outage.
  • Buy a corded phone.  They work even when the power is out.
  • Use walkie talkies to communicate short distances.
  • Have more than one method of communication as land lines, cell phones, cable, internet, and electricity can all be disrupted and at different times.
  • Leave written notes for people if the previous methods do not work.
  • If you evacuate, forward land line numbers to cell phones.
  • If you evacuate, take your phone chargers and extra batteries with you.
  • It’s often easier to call out of the affected area than within it so…
  • Have a central contact outside the storm area so family and friends can check in if they become separated from your group.
  • Consider using the Crisis Response page on Facebook to let family and friends know you are okay.
  • If you have a camera phone, take photos of damaged property to send to your insurance company.

References — Houston Chronicle, 22 September 2005; AT&T.