How to communicate in a disaster when phones and the internet are down
What to do when the network is down or jammed: text messages, an out-of-town contact, a radio for news, licence-free walkie-talkies (FRS, PMR446) and CB for family and neighbours, ham radio, satellite messengers and notes left at the meeting point.
In short
- In the first hours after a disaster, mobile networks are jammed: texts get through more often than calls.
- Agree on an out-of-town contact and a meeting point so you do not depend on the phone.
- A battery or hand-crank radio brings you official information when nothing else works.
- Licence-free walkie-talkies (FRS in the US, PMR446 in Europe) keep family or neighbours in touch over short distances.
After an earthquake or during a major blackout, everyone calls at once. The network jams or goes down, and batteries run flat. A few simple preparations help you find out what is happening and reach your family anyway.
1. Use the phone wisely
- Text, don’t call: a short message is more likely to get through and uses less battery.
- Keep calls short and for emergencies; call the emergency number only for real emergencies.
- Save battery: low brightness, power-saving mode, close apps you do not need. Keep a power bank charged.
- Wi-Fi: if the mobile network is down, Wi-Fi internet sometimes works, and vice versa. Messaging apps may get through when calls do not.
2. An out-of-town contact
When the local network is jammed, long-distance calls often connect more easily. Choose a relative or friend in another town whom every family member checks in with to say they are safe and where they are. Write the number on paper, in your wallet and your bag.
3. The meeting point and notes
If nothing works, go to the meeting point you agreed in advance. If you have to leave home, leave a note somewhere agreed (on the door, in the mailbox) with the time, where you are going and how you are. Details in the family emergency plan.
4. Radio: finding out what is happening
A battery, hand-crank or solar radio picks up news and official instructions even with no power or internet. AM signals travel far, and in the US, NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts warnings around the clock. See emergency radios.
5. Radios for family and neighbours
| Type | Licence | Real range | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| FRS (US) / PMR446 (Europe) | No | A few hundred metres – 2 km | Family, neighbours, a group on foot |
| GMRS (US) | Yes, no exam | Several km, more with repeaters | Families who want more range |
| CB 27 MHz | No | 5–15 km from a vehicle | Roads, rural areas, neighbourhoods |
| Amateur (ham) radio | Yes, exam | Local to worldwide | Those willing to learn; ham networks help in disasters |
| Satellite messenger | No | Anywhere under open sky | Mountains, areas without signal |
For most families a pair of FRS or PMR446 radios is enough: children can talk to parents from the yard, neighbours in a building to each other. Agree on a channel and a time to listen, for example five minutes at the top of every hour, to save battery.
6. Simple signals
- Whistle: three short blasts mean “I need help”.
- Flashlight: three flashes at night.
- Tapping on pipes or walls if you are trapped under debris.
- A sign in the window (a white sheet with “OK” or “HELP”) shows rescuers who needs help.
Checklist
- Important numbers written on paper
- An out-of-town contact
- An agreed meeting point
- A charged power bank and cable
- A battery or hand-crank radio
- Walkie-talkies with batteries (optional)
- A whistle in every bag
Recommended equipment
What to look for when buying. The links open a search in an online shop; we earn nothing from them.Details.
Licence-free walkie-talkies
For family or neighbours, with no network and no licence.
- FRS (US) or PMR446 (Europe)
- Rechargeable or AA batteries
- Splash-resistant
Frequently asked questions
What range do walkie-talkies really have?
In town, usually a few hundred metres to 1–2 km (about a mile); more in open country or from a hill. The figures on the box (20 miles and more) are for ideal conditions. They are good for family, neighbours or a group moving together.
Do I need a licence for CB or GMRS?
CB radio on 27 MHz is licence-free in the US and most of Europe. In the US, GMRS radios need an FCC licence (no exam, one per family), while FRS radios need none. Amateur (ham) radio needs an exam and a licence everywhere.
Is a satellite messenger worth it?
For hiking in the mountains or areas without signal, yes: it sends short messages and an SOS with your position. Some newer phones also have satellite SOS. In town it is usually not necessary.
Sources and further reading
Preper is for general education and does not replace instructions from your local authorities or advice from a doctor. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.