As part of National Preparedness Month, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today released new tips for consumers aimed at preparing them for major disasters when communications networks are more likely to be compromised or damaged.
As part of National Preparedness Month, the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) today released new tips for consumers aimed at preparing them for major
disasters when communications networks are more likely to be compromised or
damaged. Nearly one month ago, a 5.8
magnitude earthquake and Hurricane Irene struck the East Coast. In the minutes and hours that followed,
mobile networks experienced significant network congestion, temporarily making
it harder for millions of people to reach loved ones and emergency
services. This tip sheet aims to help
prepare Americans about how to communicate with each other, and loved ones, in
the event of another disaster.
“Between
the East Coast earthquake, Hurricane Irene, Tropical Storm Lee, and wildfires in Texas and California, we have had a lot of
powerful reminders lately that disasters can strike anytime, anywhere – and can
often make it difficult for the public to communicate with friends, loved ones
or emergency personnel,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “An
important part of preparing for disasters includes getting ready for potential
communications challenges, whether caused by power outages or heavy cell
network congestion. These simple tips are easy for anyone to follow and could
make a world of difference when it matters the most.”
To read and download the tips, click here.