The Importance of Creating a Communication Plan During Emergencies: Insights from a Lifelong Prepper
Its Time.
Emergencies strike without warning, and whether it’s a natural disaster, a technological blackout, or societal collapse, the key to survival lies in preparation. Among the many aspects of prepping, creating a robust communication plan is arguably one of the most critical. As a lifelong prepper and survival expert, I’ve witnessed firsthand how effective communication can mean the difference between chaos and control. Let’s delve deeply into how to create a communication plan that not only works but is resilient enough to withstand even the most catastrophic scenarios.
Let’s dive in.
“Beyond physical supplies, mental preparedness is crucial. Teach your family basic survival skills, like how to purify water, start a fire, and administer first aid”
The Foundation of Emergency Communication
When I was 12, my family experienced a devastating flood. The rivers near our home in the Midwest overflowed, cutting off roads and isolating communities. What saved us wasn’t the abundance of food or water we’d stored but the old CB radio my dad kept in the garage. Through it, we learned which evacuation routes were open and coordinated with neighbors to share resources. This experience ingrained in me the importance of communication in survival.
At its core, a communication plan is about ensuring you can send and receive critical information during a crisis. This might include updates about the emergency itself, instructions from authorities, or messages to loved ones. A comprehensive plan considers the following:
Modes of Communication: Diverse tools, such as radios, satellite phones, and messaging apps.
Protocols: Establishing who to contact, when, and how.
Redundancies: Backups for when primary systems fail.
Building a Reliable Communication Network
1. Assessing Your Needs
Every family or group is unique, and your communication plan should reflect that. Consider the size of your group, geographic location, and potential threats. For example, if you live in an earthquake-prone area, cellular towers might become unusable, necessitating alternative solutions like ham radios.
For my own family, we created a tiered system. Our first line of communication was cell phones, but we knew these could fail. So, we invested in handheld radios with a 30-mile range and a satellite communicator for long-distance messaging. We tested these devices monthly to ensure they’d work when needed.
2. Gathering Essential Equipment
Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless tools. Some of the most reliable include:
Ham Radios: These are versatile and offer excellent range, making them invaluable for communication during large-scale disasters. I’ve used my Yaesu FT-60R to coordinate with fellow preppers miles away during snowstorms.
Satellite Phones: While expensive, they’re indispensable for areas without cell coverage. On a trip to the Alaskan wilderness, my Iridium satellite phone was the only lifeline when our group got stranded.
Signal Mirrors and Whistles: These low-tech tools are often overlooked but can be lifesaving for short-range communication. I’ve used a whistle to alert search parties during a hiking trip gone awry.
Crafting Your Communication Plan
Step 1: Identify Key Contacts
The first step is to create a list of essential contacts, including family members, neighbors, local authorities, and fellow preppers. For each contact, note their preferred communication method and any backup methods. Share this list with everyone involved.
When Hurricane Katrina struck, a fellow prepper’s family avoided separation because they’d distributed laminated contact lists to all members. Simple steps like this can save lives.
Step 2: Establish Protocols
In emergencies, time is critical. Decide in advance who will initiate contact and under what circumstances. For instance, your plan might dictate that during a power outage, everyone should check in every two hours via radio.
One protocol my family uses involves geographic checkpoints. If separated, we meet at pre-designated locations. This proved invaluable during a wildfire evacuation when cell towers were overwhelmed.
Step 3: Practice Regularly
Your communication plan is only as good as its execution. Schedule regular drills to ensure everyone knows their role. During these drills, simulate different scenarios, such as power outages or severe weather. Doing so not only tests your equipment but also familiarizes everyone with the process.
Real-World Lessons from Disasters
In 2018, I volunteered with a group aiding communities affected by Hurricane Michael. What struck me was how many families lacked even basic communication plans. One woman had no way to contact her husband, who was working out of state, for nearly a week. This highlighted the need for redundancy.
On the flip side, I’ve seen well-prepared groups thrive in chaos. During a prolonged blackout in Texas, a friend’s neighborhood organized through GMRS radios. They shared resources, kept everyone informed, and ensured vulnerable residents received care. Their success stemmed from preparation and practice.
Adapting to Modern Challenges
Today, technology offers incredible tools, but it also introduces vulnerabilities. Cyberattacks, for instance, can disable networks. During a simulated grid-down exercise I participated in last year, we relied on analog methods—ham radios and physical maps—to maintain communication. The lesson? High-tech is great, but low-tech backups are essential.
Final Thoughts
Creating a communication plan is a foundational aspect of prepping. It’s about more than just tools; it’s about foresight, adaptability, and teamwork. Remember, the best plan is one that’s tested, updated, and embraced by everyone involved. Emergencies are inevitable, but with preparation, you can face them with confidence and resilience.
Useful Products for Emergency Communication
Baofeng BF-F8HP Ham Radio
An affordable and reliable ham radio with an extended range, perfect for beginners and experienced preppers alike.Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator
A lightweight satellite communicator that allows for two-way messaging and emergency SOS.Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS Two-Way Radios
Durable radios with excellent range, ideal for family or group communication.Uniden HomePatrol-2 Digital Scanner
A user-friendly scanner that monitors emergency services, providing crucial updates.Whistle Emergency Survival Keychain
A simple but effective tool for signaling in close-range emergencies.Solar Hand Crank Emergency Radio
This versatile radio includes a flashlight, power bank, and NOAA weather updates.Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite Phone
A rugged satellite phone for reliable communication in the most remote areas.Signal Mirror with Lanyard
Compact and lightweight, this mirror is a must-have for visual signaling.Retevis RT22 Two-Way Radios
A budget-friendly option for short-range communication with excellent clarity.Portable Faraday Bag for Electronics
Protects your communication devices from EMPs and other electronic disruptions.
By investing in the right tools and crafting a thorough communication plan, you’ll be better prepared to face any emergency with confidence and competence. Remember, in survival, the ability to communicate effectively can save lives.
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