Communicating during an emergency

Real-Time emergency updates

During an Emergency

Are You Ready?

A disaster can strike at any time, without warning. Learn how to make an emergency kit and plan, and protect yourself, your family, and your property.

After a disaster, you will want to know that your family and friends are safe. It may be difficult to make local phone calls, as phone lines may be damaged and there may be a larger volume of people trying to make calls. 

You may not hear from anyone within the first several hours following a disaster, and it could take up to 24 hours or longer for a family member to get access to a phone line.

What to do before an emergency

What to do during an emergency

If there is an emergency, start by contacting your out-of-area contact. Although local phone systems may be tied up after a disaster, long distance circuits are often unaffected and can be used to provide updates and check on your loved ones. Report how you are, where you are, or where you plan to be. Keep your calls short.

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