Emergencies happen, and when they do, it can occur very suddenly. Although many have considered this scenario, few have an emergency communications plan. There are many situations that may require quick action, and simply knowing what to do ahead of time can be an important aspect of surviving a serious situation.
Those who watch the news will quickly begin to understand how important communications are during emergencies. Floods, fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, and many other situations can crop up suddenly and without warning. One would be wise to prepare beforehand with an adequate plan. A huge problem in this regard is that landlines and cell phones tend to lose functionality. The electricity may also stop working. When this happens, there are some tools and other supplies that can be important. Battery powered radios and flashlights, for instance, should always be on hand.
Although contemplating and preparing for these types of situations is not fun, and it can even be frightening, rest assured that there is only a small chance that something like this could become a real concern. Though the chances are slim, it is still happens every day somewhere in the world. Disasters are completely unpredictable, so a bit of preparation can help to put your mind at ease. When the lines of communication go down, one will need to be able to communicate with family, friends, and neighbors. Consider keeping some supplies on hand, such as a bull horn, survival whistles, and walkie-talkies. This can be helpful for conveying your position, especially if it is a dangerous position.
It is especially important to create a plan for the family just in case. Again, a bullhorn, walkie-talkies, and whistles can be a good place to start when creating your plan. Another important piece of equipment is a am/fm solar powered radio, or a transistor radio. Go ahead and look for models that have speakers to help stay up to date with news and other relevant information. Radios are absolutely vital for catching the latest warnings and updates. For instance, knowing that certain roads are blocked or closed, or where emergency personnel can be found, may be impossible without a radio.
Remember that some of these types of radios come equipped with a siren. This is another potentially life-saving item to have in a survival kit. Simply creating noise and draw attention to yourself is key, especially if you find yourself trapped. Remember that preparation may seem trivial, but it has saved many lives.