USING TECHNOLOGY DURING A DISASTER
We rely on technology more than ever to stay connected with family, friends, and colleagues. With a click, we can share information instantly. During a major emergency, these everyday tools become vital for staying informed, reaching loved ones, and accessing help. Here are practical tips for using technology effectively in an emergency:
Stay Connected Wisely Use text, email, or social media when you can. These use less network space than phone calls and may still work even when networks are congested. If you need to make a phone call, keep it short. Share only important information with family or emergency workers. This helps the network and saves your battery. Manage Busy Networks If a call doesn’t go through, wait about 10 seconds before trying again. Calling over and over can make the network even busier. Remember: Cordless home phones need electricity and will not work in a power outage. If you have a landline, keep at least one phone that plugs into the wall. Prepare Your Devices and Power Sources Keep extra batteries or a backup charger in your emergency kit. Think about getting a solar, crank, or car charger for long power outages. If you don’t use a cell phone, keep a prepaid calling card in your emergency supplies. Save your battery by lowering your screen brightness, using airplane mode when you’re not using your phone, and closing apps you don’t need. Keep Your Contacts Updated Update important phone numbers and emails regularly. Include family, neighbours, your child’s school, your workplace, and your insurance company. Plan Ahead With Your Smartphone Save your family’s safe meeting place in your phone’s map app so you can find it quickly.
Hastings County Emergency Preparedness Guide Page 13
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