Smartphone Apps and GPS for Emergency Situations

Even if the cellular system is down and you are unable to make phone calls, your smartphone can still be a useful tool. Keep in mind, too, that even when voice calls don’t work due to overloaded circuits, you still may be able to send text messages. It’s not unusual for texting to work even when you can’t make or receive calls with your mobile phone. Plus, there are voice, text, and other useful apps and downloads which can be useful even when the cellular phone system is down. This article recommends apps and gear to help you prepare now, in advance of the need.

2-Way Radios for Emergency Communication

Since mobile phones often don’t work in an emergency situation, and 9-1-1 dispatch systems may be down or overloaded, we need alternative communication methods. We need to be able to communicate with family and friends, to summon help, and to help deliver it to those who need assistance.  This article is a summary of our 2-way communication options, problems, solutions, and the pros and cons of various products, plus the recommendations of our experienced experts. 

PDF Reference and Medical Documents

Having access to personal records and identification during an emergency situation is important, but other documents, such as medical reference documents, equipment and product manuals, schematics, maps, and other reference materials may also be a godsend. If you are anywhere other than at home when disaster strikes, you may not have access to your laptop computer […]

Emergency Radios: “All-Hazards” Notification and News Updates During an Emergency

For those who live in the United States, the U.S. Government maintains a nationwide network of 1,000 emergency radio stations (NWR).  These continuously broadcast region-specific weather information, and now other emergency information, too. Therefore, all emergency kits assembled for use in the U.S. should include a radio which is capable of receiving these “All-Hazards” radio broadcasts. […]