Be Prepared America- Emergency Preparedness

A communication plan is essential for reconnecting with family and colleagues. Ready.gov emphasizes the importance of a written plan, and this section provides the digital tools to make it robust.

• Create a Digital Family Contact List: Don't rely solely on your phone's address book.
  
  • Action: Use a cloud-based service (like Google Docs or a shared spreadsheet) to create a contact list for all family members. This list should include phone numbers, email addresses, and social media handles. Make sure everyone has access and knows how to use it.

• Create a paper copy of the contact information for your family," but in a shareable, digital format that can be accessed from any device.

• Establish an "Out-of-State" Point of Contact:
  
  • Action: Designate a single person outside your immediate area for all family members to call or text. Text messages often get through when phone lines are congested.

• Practice with Technology:
  
  • Action: Conduct a quarterly "communication drill." Practice sending group text messages, using social media to check in, and using video chat services to simulate reconnecting after an emergency.

Action: Use an encrypted USB drive or a secure, cloud-based folder to store digital copies of critical documents.

• What to Include:
  
• Copies of insurance policies (homeowners, car, health).
• Identification documents (driver's licenses, passports).
• Medical records and prescription information.
• A list of important passwords (stored securely).
• Family photos (for comfort and documentation).

The Physical Kit with a Digital Twist:

Action: Assemble a physical kit with a focus on power and communication.

• What to Include:
  
  • Portable Power: A portable power bank for your phone, a solar charger, and a car phone charger.

• NOAA Weather Radio: A battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio with a tone alert to receive official alerts when other communication methods fail.

• Pre-paid Phone Card: For use in the event you lose or damage your mobile device.

 Staying informed with accurate, real-time information is crucial. This is where Be Prepared America's expertise in technology can shine.

• Emergency Alert Systems:
  
  • Action: Ensure your phone is set up to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) and familiarize yourself with the unique sound and vibration. Download the FEMA Mobile App for real-time weather and emergency alerts for up to five locations.

• Leverage Social Media and Official Sources:
  
  • Action: Follow official emergency management agencies (e.g., FEMA, local fire departments, National Weather Service) on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) or Facebook. Use these platforms to get information and signal that you are safe.

• Digital Skills for Resiliency:
  
  • Action: As an organization focused on workforce development, Be Prepared America can offer a specialized course or webinar on "Digital Skills for Emergency Preparedness." Topics could include:
    
    • Basic cybersecurity to protect personal data during an emergency.
    • Using mapping and navigation apps for evacuation routes.
    • How to use a VPN to maintain secure communication.

 Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the right items.  

 Be Prepared. Make an emergency plan today and practice it.  

 There are many hazards that can disrupt your business. Protect your business by planning ahead.