06
Jan

Approaching fires lead to emotional stress, and this ends up greater due to a lack of communication. You need to know what’s going on and where you need to go. This is why a communication plan is essential.

Make Sure You’re on the List

Over the last few years, the Reverse 911 system not working effectively has been linked to numerous deaths during wildfires. In Colorado alone, the success rate is only around 50%! The circuits are overloaded during major disasters, because people are calling their own loved ones. It makes it harder for the official channels to get through. This is why it’s so important not to rely on one communication method.

There are usually other options, but residents need to make sure they are on the list for their county’s emergency management office. Even if you think you are on the list, take the time to double check. Make sure they have the right phone number, email address, and other methods of contact. Make sure that every single email address and phone number you have is registered so you don’t miss an alert.

Remember That Lines Go Down

If you live in a Red Zone, make sure you have a hardwired landline phone. Cordless phones don’t end up working well when the power goes out. Cell phones can end up being disconnected as signal levels fail when fires approach. Earthquakes can knock out powerlines, leading to internet services being disconnected. This puts many people in the dark.

Having a radio is also a great idea. You’ll want a handheld transceiver radio. Not only can you listen out for information on where to go, but you can stay in touch with loved ones when you’re on the road.

Look out for a MARS/CAP mod. This is great to modify your usual ham radio to make it possible to connect to police and fire radio signals. You can contact them directly in the middle of an emergency—do not do this outside of an emergency!

Don’t Rely on the House Calls

If the sheriff or the fire service can, they will head out to houses to check on the people living there. This can be done in the lead up to an emergency to make sure homeowners are aware of where to go and what to do. However, not all emergencies have any warning, and it’s not always possible for the police and fire services to get out.

If you have a locked gate, you need a code or a keypad that the emergency services have access to. This allows them in to get medical attention to you should you need it.

Have designated key contacts in your cell phone. You can do this with “ICE” at the end of the name, which stands for “In Case of Emergency.” The officials will understand this, so if they come across you, they can get in touch with loved ones or those who can make decisions for you in an instant.

Prepare for an emergency to happen and have communication options at all times.