Emergency Communication

Cell towers go down. Internet goes out. Landlines fail. During a serious emergency, the communication systems you rely on every day may not be available. Emergency radios and signaling tools give you a backup way to receive critical information and stay connected with family.

Why emergency communication matters

During disasters, NOAA weather radio and AM/FM broadcasts are often the only reliable sources of real-time information — evacuation orders, shelter locations, weather updates and emergency instructions. A hand-crank or battery-powered radio is one of the most important items in any emergency kit.

Communication categories

• Light & Communication — flashlights, radios, signaling tools

Build a family communication plan

Establish a meeting point, designate an out-of-area contact person, and make sure every family member knows the plan before an emergency happens. Write it down — do not rely on everyone remembering it under stress.