Communications

 Having reliable emergency communications during or after a natural disaster or other emergency event is critical for ensuring safety, coordinating rescue efforts, and maintaining vital connections with loved ones. When traditional communication infrastructures, such as cellular networks and power grids, fail due to severe damage, alternative communication tools become essential. These tools allow individuals to call for help, receive important safety alerts, and access real-time updates about changing conditions, which can be life-saving. Additionally, emergency communication aids first responders and community support networks in organizing swift and effective responses to assist those in need. Ensuring robust communication options in these scenarios can make a crucial difference between timely intervention and prolonged danger. 

Two-Way Radios (Walkie-Talkies) - FRS

Most people are familiar with walkie-talkies.  They are simple to use, battery operated and effective for relatively short-range communication (3-5 miles).  Transmission distances may also be limited by other things such as terrain.  

If this satisfies your application, I recommend you consider some of the following options.  

Popular FRS radios to consider purchasing - click on the sponsored link after each option below

1. Midland 36 Channel FRS Two-Way Radio - https://amzn.to/3ATfEsp
2. Moico Walkie-Talkies for Adults - https://amzn.to/48XGCMb
3.  NXGKET 22 Channel FRS Two-Way Radio - https://amzn.to/3Z7wn4L
4.  Motorola Solutions, Portable FRS, T802 - https://amzn.to/4fQCdNr
5.  Dewalt DXFRS800 DXFRS800 2 W 22 Channels Two-Way Radios - https://amzn.to/3YNSTya

Two-Way Radios (Walkie-Talkies) - GMRS

GMRS radios are considerably more reliable and have a longer range.  You will be required to purchase a license from the FCC which costs about $35 and can be obtained online within 48 hours.  

Popular GMRS radios to consider purchasing - click on the sponsored link after each option below

1. Midland® - GXT1000X3VP4 Walkie Talkie - https://amzn.to/3O6wIhN
2. Cobra RX380 Walkie Talkies - https://amzn.to/3AwQ9x9
3. BTECH GMRS-PRO IP67 - https://amzn.to/3YQMhPn
4. Retevise RB48P Walkie Talkies - https://amzn.to/3CvrCZO

Satellite Phones & Satellite Communicators

Satellite phones offer a very robust solution because they operate independently of cell networks by connecting to satellites, allowing for communication from almost anywhere in the world.  However, this normally comes at a higher cost to purchase and operate.  If your plan is to use this option for relatively short duration during emergencies only, Iridium, Inmarsat and Globalstar all offer prepaid options.   

Popular satellite phones to consider purchasing - click on the sponsored link after each option below

1. Garmin InReach Mini 2 Compact Satellite Communicator - https://amzn.to/48Uxo39 - This is not a true satellite phone but can send text messages to any telephone number in the device directory.  However, a Garmin subscription is required to send text messages and starts at $15/month. 
2. ZOLEO Satellite Communicator - https://amzn.to/3AJXjhp - Iridium subscription required
3. Spot X with Bluetooth 2-Way Satellite Messenger - https://amzn.to/3Cw1o9x - Globalstar subscription required
4. Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone - https://amzn.to/48ZpMg4
5. BlueCosmo Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 - https://amzn.to/40O8v7e 
6. Globalstar GSP-1600 Satellite Phone - https://amzn.to/3OcXmFy

Emergency AM/FM/NOAA Radios

Emergency radios are available with some really ingenious design options.  Most have AM/FM and NOAA broadcast frequencies with multiple power sources and output functions such as flashlight, phone charger and reading lamp.  All for a reasonable price.

Popular emergency radios to consider purchasing - click on the sponsored link after each option below

1. Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency Radio - https://amzn.to/3URLsVi
2. Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather Radio - https://amzn.to/3YJ8HC4   
3. FosPower Emergency Weather Radio - https://amzn.to/4i4JyuP   
4. Raynic Emergency Radio - https://amzn.to/4ftvklo
5. Emergency Crank Weather Radio by RunningSnail - https://amzn.to/4fRypLV  

Signal Flares, Air Horns and Whistles

Signal flares, air horns and whistles are beneficial for gaining the attention of search and rescue teams as they approach your location.  

Popular devices to consider purchasing - click on the sponsored link after each option below

1.  Sirius Signal C-1003 SOS LED Flare Electronic - https://amzn.to/3O9j9hk
2.  LED Road Flares 6-Pack - https://amzn.to/4etvAPP  
3. Survival whistle 2- pack - https://amzn.to/4fxgk66  
4. Noopel Emergency Whistles - https://amzn.to/3YPIC4s   
5. Premium Brass Whistles 125 decimals Set of 2 - https://amzn.to/40QYSFa   
6. SeaSense Air Horn - https://amzn.to/4ftpb8M   
7. SABRE Frontiersman Bear Horn - https://amzn.to/3OephFj