In times of disaster, communication becomes a crucial lifeline. Here are some key tips to stay connected and make the best use of your devices:
- Keep Your Phone Charged: If possible, keep an extra battery pack nearby. Use power-saving options like screen brightness reduction and battery saver mode.
- Limit Phone Use: Keep calls short and concise. Wait at least 10 seconds before redialing if your call doesn’t connect; this helps reduce network congestion. Try sending a text if calls aren’t going through.
- Consider a Landline: When cell towers are down, landlines often still work. Having a landline as a backup can be invaluable.
- Only Call 911 for Life-Threatening Emergencies: Use 911 for urgent help only. For other emergencies, use designated local emergency numbers.
- Have a Hand Crank Radio: Hand crank radios are a reliable way to stay informed without needing batteries. Check out this hand crank radio option to consider.
Essential Apps for Crisis Situations
These apps can help you stay connected, informed, and safe during emergencies:
- Facebook: Use Facebook’s crisis response feature to update your safety status and location.
- Life360: This app provides real-time location sharing for family members. You can set up alerts for arrivals and departures, making it easy to locate everyone quickly.
- Red Panic Button: This app instantly sends your location to your contacts, letting them know you’re in trouble.
- Disaster Alert: Stay aware of “active hazards” globally and share alerts with others in affected areas.
- Spot Connect: This app allows you to connect your phone to a satellite messenger, enabling communication from remote locations.
- Zello: Turns your phone into a walkie-talkie, ideal for group communication without relying on cell networks.
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