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Monday, August 18, 2014

Keep Communication Lines Open With An Emergency Radio

By Eric Holm


It is not unusual for people to panic during a crisis. A traumatic experience will affect different people in different ways and it helps if someone can remain calm under pressure. Safety should be a top priority for all. Having access to the proper supplies, including an emergency radio, can mean the difference between life and death. Things are often chaotic in the aftermath of a natural disaster or some type of accident. Keeping a cool head and knowing where to turn for accurate information is absolutely crucial if you hope to come through a disaster in relatively good shape.

It has also been witnessed that after a massive earthquake, a devastating flood or a harrowing tsunami, that the existing communications system may not be available. The cause may be either due to physical damage or system overload. Consequently, the entire communication suddenly stalls with the damage of telephone wires, damage of cellular phone towers and antennas losing power. Even the government system fails in meeting the large scale damage control and the demands of the civilians affected. This is the time for any voluntary or non voluntary organization to respond quickly in the event of an emergency. There are many organizations that have developed emergency communication plans to carry out the communications and operations offering rapid response during a crisis. The communication devices that can be used during a crisis:

Amateur Radio: In time of a natural disaster an amateur radio is often used as an important medium of emergency communication. An amateur radio is especially helpful when wire phone, cell phones and other communication mediums fail to respond. Unlike other communication devices, the amateur radio is not completely dependent on land facilities. Amateur radio operators are experienced in using the device. It can easily be powered with an automobile battery.

A solar radio or solar radio flashlight is a powerful tool when power is unavailable. This device will convert sunlight to energy that will run the batteries and allow the light to work. A traditional AM/FM transistor radio will be able to pick up any warnings that are being released over the airwaves. It is important to keep track of the news stations so you will know immediately if there are evacuation orders for your area. These handy devices may be the only form of communication available when the power fails and your survival depends on you being able to stay informed about what is going on around you. These items are often equipped with a strap and headphones.

Other devices that can be used during a crisis include a crank radio, a megaphone or a bullhorn. There are also units that combine a crank radio and flashlight, similar to the solar unit noted above. Something as simple as a whistle can be used to get the attention of rescue workers. Three short blasts will indicate that you need assistance. The rescue team members will typically signal back with two short bursts to indicate they have heard the call for help.




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