An emergency communication plan can strengthen the bond among family and friends, enhance safety, and promote a more resilient and connected community.
You can’t map out the exact path of a tornado to know which homes will be destroyed. You can’t predict which direction the wind will blow during a wildfire — especially when the fire is burning so hot that it creates its own weather patterns. In today’s work climate, it’s hard to even anticipate layoffs.
More simply put, emergencies are unpredictable — much like a toddler’s tantrum. You never know what will set them off or when the top will blow.
With an emergency communication plan, however, you have some assurance that you’ll be able to reach someone on your SHTF team. A strategic plan can enhance safety while strengthening the bond among family and friends, and promoting a more resilient and connected community.
Let’s take a look at the elements that will help you establish a plan for communication during emergency situations.
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What’s the key function for emergency communication?
Emergency communication should focus on sharing vital information during crises and to request assistance. It’s a way for your group to share critical updates, coordinate response efforts, provide guidance, and ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in the group. If you’re lucky, your communication methods may even help locate your granddaughter’s baby doll. Emergencies are easier to navigate when toddlers are pacified.
What should be in an emergency communication plan?
When a mushroom cloud blossoms over a nearby city, you could just grab some radios and start talking, but don’t expect anyone to reply. You need to coordinate in advance so you're on the right channel, on the right kind of radio, and you can reach further than the end of the block.
Create a strategic plan, however, and your entire team could soon be enjoying a can of fruit cocktail in a local bunker — comfortable and at ease — as the bomb drops.
1. Define and assign roles and responsibilities
First things first, everyone needs to know their part in this wild ride. Designate a point person as the team leader. The team leader will keep everyone on track and coordinate communication efforts. Assign other roles as well, such as:
Message distributor, the person who relays info to the rest of the team
Tech guru, the person who knows all about the radios and antennas
2. Build a communication dream team
Build your team by picking people who are reliable and know how to handle pressure. Include family members, close friends, or trusted neighbors. Remember, you're in this together!
3. Equip everyone with compatible radios
We chose GMRS radios for our team. What is a GMRS radio good for, you ask? Well, these bad boys offer better range and power than your average walkie-talkies (yeah, FRS, we're looking at you). When you're out of cell range, these radios will be your lifeline. They’re also user-friendly, and anyone can use one without extensive training or stressful exams. Yes, there are other emergency communication devices. Do your research and pick the one you think is ideal for your situation.
See why we think GMRS is the best type of radio for our survival situation.
4. Establish code words
Create code words or phrases to maintain secrecy and security. You don’t want to broadcast your location in conjunction with the resources you have on hand. Make code words unique and maybe even a bit fun, but don't go overboard — you don't want to trip over your own words during chaos.
5. Identify primary and secondary channels
Standardize the frequencies your team will use and jot them down in your plan. Write them down on your kitchen board, tattoo them on your arm, or just practice enough you know them by heart. Set a primary and secondary channel for your team to use. Remember, being prepared means having redundancies.
6. Coordinate with your team
Stay connected, folks! Set up regular check-ins, so everyone's on the same page. No, you don’t need to check in weekly at all costs, but you should know how to connect with the people who can save your life. Use those GMRS radios to keep the chatter going, but don't go all radio talk mumbo-jumbo. Keep your communication in code, simple, and clear.
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Remember, no plan is perfect, and emergencies can be an emotional and physical roller coaster ride. So, stay flexible, adapt as needed, and know that you have a plan for effective communication during disasters.
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