Question

Importance of alternative communication system during disaster

Answer 1

When disaster strikes getting food and medical aid to victims is the number one priority but communications play an extremely important role as well. More often than not the electricity and in turn telephone and data infrastructures are severely are rendered unserviceable, making communication impossible.


Communications must occur in numerous directions, between and among agencies, organizations, first responders, support personnel, government and the media.


Another level of communications is that which occurs within the Incident Command Centers (ICCs) managing the response to the event or the Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Much of that communciation might be done by direct face-to-face meetings, by noted sent via runners, or by radio, preferably encrypted to keep secure information from the media and the public. Usually there will be Command Centers for each level of government.


Much of the communication with the public by the EOCs will be managed by a Public Information Officer who is trained and skilled in disaster-type communications, announcements, press releases and informational warnings.

Answer 2

During an emergency or disaster, there are several alternative communication methods that individuals, employees and businesses can implement. Particularly during a disaster, it is important to have alternative strategies available. Providing communication as part of a disaster plan, as well as utilizing ham radio, social networking sites and emergency alert systems, are alternative ways to communicate during a disaster.