Communications When the Cell Network Is Busy

Text messages may succeed when voice calls do not. Every household member should know the out-of-area contact and the time and channel for the next check-in.

Receive trusted information

Enable local emergency alerts and keep a battery-powered weather radio. Write important numbers on paper as well as storing them on devices.

Use radios responsibly

Family radios can help at short range, but terrain and buildings reduce performance. Amateur radio offers broader capability only with appropriate knowledge and licensing.