Good communication can make a world of difference during a storm.If you prepare yourself and follow certain ground rules during the storm, you will be able to stay connected with your loved ones and ensure that everyone gets through it safely.
Step 1: Emergency and news apps are available.
Specialty apps can connect you with emergency service organizations or give you news about the storm if you have a smart device.During the storm, these programs will help you stay informed.The Red Cross' Hurricane App is one of the apps to check out.The Weather Underground is a storm tracking app.There is a traffic and road closing app.FEMA has an emergency preparedness app.
Step 2: You should buy a backup battery and car charge.
You want your phone to have power during a storm.If your phone runs out of juice, you should buy a backup battery and keep a car charge in your vehicle.
Step 3: Write down important phone numbers.
You won't have a lot of time to look up individual phone numbers during a storm.You should put any numbers you need into your phone.If your phone goes out of power or breaks during the storm, you should keep a written list of important numbers.To make communication as easy as possible, adjust your phone's speed dial settings so that each number connects to an important contact.If you can, make a laminated list so it doesn't get destroyed.
Step 4: As a central contact, choose someone who is outside the danger zone.
It may not be possible to check up on everyone in the midst of the storm.Establish an emergency contact that lives outside of the affected area.Everyone has a secure person to report to and get updates from.Check in with your central contact frequently to make sure everyone has up to date information.If you don't know anyone outside the danger zone, set up a group chat so you can get in touch with a lot of people at the same time.
Step 5: You should keep a cheap backup phone in your emergency kit.
If your main phone breaks, gets lost, or becomes useless, this will give you an extra chance.Store the burner phone in a waterproof container, and make sure to include a charger, sim card and anything else you need to operate it.Inexpensive emergency phones can be found at used electronics stores.Cell phones must be able to make calls regardless of whether you pay for a wireless subscription or not.You can call family and friends without paying a monthly service bill if you buy a prepay or pay as you go card.
Step 6: Text messages can be used instead of phone calls.
Cell towers get bombarded with a lot of phone calls during emergencies.Your calls may not get through because of network congestion.Text messages take up less data and have a better chance of being sent.
Step 7: You should make phone calls in case of an emergency.
Texts are the best way to stay in touch with people during a storm.If you need help immediately from a hospital, fire department, police, rescue team, or crisis relief organization, call a specialty hotline.If your area offers a text-based service, don't rely on it during the storm.
Step 8: Wait at least 10 seconds between calls.
Your call may take a few tries to go through successfully due to the amount of cellular congestion.Redialing immediately after a failed call will lower your chances of getting through.Wait at least 10 seconds between calls.
Step 9: It's a good idea to make calls while stationary to avoid dropped connections.
Cell towers have a harder time keeping track of your phone during emergencies.It's a good idea to avoid making calls while walking or riding in a vehicle.
Step 10: If your calls and texts don't work, you can use the Internet.
If you can't get any cell service during the storm, or if the network is too congested to use, you might still be able to access the internet.If you can, try to stay in touch with people using dedicated messaging and social media apps.
Step 11: Stay with family and friends if communication goes out.
Long-distance communication may not be possible during bad hurricanes.If something like this happens, try to stay with close friends or family members at all times, reducing the amount of people you need to get a hold of.