Emergency Communications Quick Sheet
Who to call, what to say, and backup communication plans.
2 min read · 4 sections
Priority Contact Order
- 1. Emergency services (911 / local equivalent)
- 2. Out-of-area contact (easier to reach than local contacts)
- 3. Immediate family members
- 4. Workplace / school emergency lines
- 5. Neighbours (for welfare checks)
When Phone Lines Are Overloaded
- Text messages get through when voice calls fail
- Social media check-ins (Facebook Safety Check, etc.)
- NOAA Weather Radio (battery/hand-crank) for broadcast alerts
- FRS/GMRS radios (channel 1: family channel) for short-range
- Amateur (HAM) radio for long-range in extended outages
What to Say
- "I am [name], at [address], I need [specific help]."
- State number of people and any injuries
- Mention any hazards (fire, gas leak, flooding)
- Give a call-back number
- Keep calls brief — others need the line
Family Meeting Points
- Primary: [fill in — near your home]
- Secondary: [fill in — further away, e.g. school or community centre]
- Out-of-town: [fill in — family/friend location]
- Post a written copy in every vehicle and at home