KEEPING IN TOUCH
DURING A DISASTER
Charge cell phones and extra batteries
before predicted storms hit.
Consider using a car 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.
Save cell phone batteries by using working land lines.
Use walkie talkies to communicate short distances.
Make calls only in an emergency to keep lines and networks as free as
possible.
Remember land line cordless phones dont work during a power outage.
Sometimes cell phones will not work during an extended power outage.
Keep phones and batteries dry.
Have more than 1 method of communication as land lines, cell phones, cable,
internet, and electricity can all be disrupted and at different times.
If you evacuate, forward home numbers to cell phones.
Program emergency contacts into cell phones.
Have a central contact outside the storm area so family and/or friends can
check in if they become separated from your group.
REFERENCE -- Houston Chronicle September
22, 2005.
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