You Need More Than a Cell Phone to Be Prepared

Modern technology has made us smarter, right? More prepared. More educated. While cell phones and the internet have several positives, including the ability to alert more people to coming disasters, they are not the only thing that can help us prepared.

 

Do you remember having a cell phone in September 2001? Chances are it didn’t work. Especially if you were in the northeastern United States. When too many people use cell phones within a small geographic area, the cell tower still can’t process them all. Sporadic and unreliable communication is not what you’re looking for in an emergency situation. Text messages aren’t much better in these situations. While they may go through, it’s usually hours later and often disjointed messages.

 

 

The worst part about cell phones not working in times of crisis? It means the first responders can’t use theirs either. And if first responders aren’t relying on their cell phones in emergencies, you shouldn’t be either.

 

All of the emergency preparedness lists include a battery operated radio. Yes, we promise those are still current lists. Radios are still relevant and especially in emergencies. Some of those reasons are better network security, longer battery life, and superior durability. Radios are also implicitly easy to use, and when stress levels are high, you want something practical and immediate. When looking for something that works in every situation, a radio is absolutely it. They were designed for such occasions.

 

When an emergency strikes, you’ll have your phone with you and be very tempted to use it. That’s ok, we all feel that way. Here are some recommended ways to let Mom know that you’re ok without crashing the cell phone system.

 

• Emergencies Only. Really. We mean it.
• If you can’t do that, make it quick. Remember that collect call from “Bob Weottababyitsaboy?” That kind of quick.
• Short texts may work. Plus it leaves the line free for emergencies.
• Try other ways of communication. Landline, email, carrier pigeon.
• Take a break in between calls. Wait at least 10 seconds before redialing.
• Use the Facebook “Safety Check” feature to alert everyone at one time.

 

What’s next on your list of “must prepare for an emergency?” If you’re not sure, or you’re ready for help. Contact us today!