Emergency Communication

By: Robert Thomson Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Events like 911 and Hurricane Katrina taught Americans a lot about themselves and their need to maintain communication with each other and support organizations. There are few things more frustrating than being unable to communicate at a time of crises. At those critical times, persons with the ability to communicate can help and protect themselves and others.

In recent years, hurricanes seem more powerful, more devastating and longer lasting than in the past. Perhaps, the climate change is creating more vicious weather cycles or perhaps it is man's reliance on the constant communication that typifies the 21st century. In the U.S. we benefit from television, radio, Internet, cell and landline communication systems that make us feel safe and in touch with the world around us. We always feel like we have advance notice of most events.

It all seems so easy until there is a natural or man-made disaster. The loss of power, heat and cooling systems and communication lines unnerves even the sturdiest of souls. For these reasons, police, fire departments, medical teams and campus security teams rely upon two way radios as dependable forms of communication. Since the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, many businesses and property managers have added two way radios to their inventories.

With a two way radio in hand, the effects and dangers of natural disasters can be reduced. In an emergency two way radios have many advantages:

- Two way radios do not rely on cell towers, like telephones. Users communicate radio-to-radio, independent of other systems. In emergencies, cell towers can be knocked down, otherwise destroyed or overloaded.

- Two way radios do not rely on telephone lines, which can take long periods of time to restore.

- Most two way radios operate through battery packs and do not rely on electrical lines that are often damaged during a natural emergency. If necessary, many two way radios can be re-charged by using the electrical charging capabilities of your car or truck. Other two way radios can be re-charged with solar batteries.

After Katrina, the U.S. government established emergency communication networks for three main communication components:

- 911 telephone call processing and delivery through Public Safety Answering Points (PSAP) and call dispatch. Of course, this avenue is only available if phone lines are operable.

- The Emergency Alert System via television and radio

- Radio and/or broadcast or cable television news and updates.

The most reliable means of open communication with police, other persons or emergency personnel is via radio.

As emergency crews are inevitably overworked and understaffed at times of natural disasters, the losses to business are substantial. Since Katrina, business owners have inventoried two way radios to protect their property, inventory and equipment. Business operations do not have to cease in times of natural disasters. In fact, these are times when many businesses can provide helpful services and respond to business opportunities.

Effective communication in emergencies relies on the right radio equipment and due diligence to assure that equipment is in working order. All personnel must be aware of procedures and operating instructions for the radios.

Batteries should be checked regularly and charged whenever needed. Equipment should be used at least once a month to ensure operation. Any operating issues should be repaired immediately. An emergency is not the best time to train radio operators.

As long as the two way radios are in place, it is a good idea to maintain extra battery equipment. Most two way battery chargers have a carrying slot for an additional battery. By keeping two batteries charged, operators are doubling their use time. Other two ways accommodate regular alkaline batteries. Be prepared, think ahead and have a sound communication plan to lessen the risk of natural disasters.

Article Source: ABC Article Directory

About The Author: Be prepared for emergencies, like hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, winter storms, tornados, and pandemic flu. Visit the HurricaneStore.com for survival tools, survival radios and emergency medical kits.