Emergency Communication

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• Cell Phones: Ensure your phone is fully charged and you have a backup power source.
• Landline Phones: If you have a landline, keep it in working order.
• Satellite phones: These can be expensive but offer reliable communication in remote areas.
• Push-To-Talk (PTT) Walkie Talkie Apps: These require WiFi or cell networks, but require far less bandwidth than typical SMS/MMS
• Family Radio Service (FRS): Ideal for short-range communication (walkie-talkie), often used for nearby family and friends. Compatible with some GMRS channels.
• Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS):  Operates on a higher power than FRS, allowing for a slightly longer range (up to 2 miles line-of-sight). However, MURS has low adoption rates and may be more difficult to be heard if in need of help. Keep in mind they're not compatible with FMS or GMRS radios.
• General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) (Requires FCC license): Offers longer range (up to 5 miles line-of-sight) and more channels than FRS and MURS, suitable for neighborhood communication.
• HAM (Amateur) Radio (Requires FCC license): Provides the longest range and most versatility.
• CB radios: While not as reliable as FRS, GMRS, or HAM radio, they can be useful in certain situations.

• Include vital information: Your name, address, phone numbers of close family and friends, emergency contact information, and any medical conditions.
• Carry it with you: Keep the card on your person or in your wallet.
• Share with loved ones: Give copies to close friends and family.
• Download Template Here

• Identify key contacts: Determine who you need to communicate with in an emergency.
• Establish meeting points: Decide on locations where you can meet if separated.
• Create a backup plan: Have a contingency plan in case your primary communication methods fail.
• Physical maps: Keep physical maps on-hand in the event your GPS does not work. You can request free maps from state tourism sites - see the full list of state sites here.

• Choose a trusted individual: Someone who lives outside your region and can act as a central point of contact.
• Inform them of your plans: Let them know about your communication methods and      emergency plans.
• Provide their contact information: Share their details with friends and family.

GMRS is a two-way radio service designed for personal and family use. It's often used by families, groups of friends, or businesses for communication purposes. 

• Family communication: Keeping in touch with family members while they're out and about, especially during emergencies or outdoor activities.
• Group communication: Coordinating activities with friends, clubs, or organizations.
• Business communication: Communicating between employees or between a business and its customers.
• Emergency communication: Providing a backup local communication system during disasters or power outages. 

1. Familiarize yourself with GMRS and best practices. While it doesn't take much to get a license, there  is an etiquette  to communicating via GMRS (including knowing/addressing yourself by your call sign). Remember, these frequencies are public - and if you're not careful/respectful, you  can upset other locals without knowing the basics before you decide to communicate.
2. Register an FRN number with the FCC Commission Registration System (CORES)
3. Log in to the FCC's License Manager and apply for a General Radio License (GMRS) for $35

HAM radio is a shortened term for Amateur Radio. It's a popular hobby and service that involves using radio waves to communicate with other people around the world.   

• Communication: Connecting with people from all over the world, sharing experiences, and building friendships.  
• Emergency communication: Providing a vital lifeline during disasters when other communication channels fail.  
• Experimentation: Exploring different radio frequencies, technologies, and operating modes.  
• Contesting: Participating in competitions to see how many contacts can be made in a specific time period.  
• Education: Learning about electronics, radio technology, and communication systems.  
• Public service: Assisting with various community events and projects.

 HAM radio licensing is more extensive than GMRS.  This license opens the door to world-wide communications and requires passing a 35-question written exam held by a Volunteer Examiner Coordinator.

To obtain a HAM license:

1. Review HAM radio resources from the National Association for Amateur Radio
2. If possible, join a local amateur radio club. The best way to learn is from experienced operators and attend their training workshops.
3. Find a license exam in your area.
4. Study for the exam
5. Pass the written exam