Preparedness - Communication Devices

Useful preparedness emergency skills include communication. 

Having a radio or even a simple whistle in your emergency kit aids you in connecting with other survivors. It also can help alert another that you are in trouble or danger. In a hiking area where a climber is stuck or stranded and out of visual range, a simple whistle sound can lead rescuers to the fallen hiker. This can also apply also to anyone trapped in debris. That small, shrill tone may just save your life. Pack this with your preparedness emergency kit.



Mirror reflections and smoke signals are a way of communicating on a primitive level. Signal flags are used in many situations to broadcast information. Learning the basic language of Morse code is a great skill to have. Many people have been rescued using the simple S.O.S. signal after being trapped in debris. They apply it by tapping on a pipe or wall to cause a patterned noise repeating the code. This  pattern helps to alert rescuers.

Sign language and hand signals are useful in times when you may have to remain quiet or when you are in a situation that is extremely noisy and talking or other ways of communicating is not possible such as incidents of high winds or heavy storm activity.


A radio that receives news or weather reports is an essential part of preparedness planning with in your 72 hour kit. A simple radio to an Am station with local weather and news can alert you to climate changes and announcements to help assess safety.


Using radio codes is part of the language of broadcasting over the airways.


Broadcasting safe zones or even hazards would greatly assist anyone in a radio signal's area. Radios can be used to set up a perimeter system or even alert others to danger. In the movie I Am Legend, Will Smith's Character, Dr. Robert Neville set up a repeating signal to let possible survivors know there was help available in the area by programming a repeating message on a radio broadcast.


For a more advance communication system, two way radios or a CB radio can connect you with others who can assist you or the other way around, need your help. 


In this article on emergency preparedness drills,  Ham radio operators practice setting up an emergency radio station.

Radio Equipment ~ Image: MorgueFiles

Ham radio operators use Field Day event to test emergency readiness
By Lisa Yates, Editor
Weekly Citizen
Posted Jun 29, 2012 @ 02:57 PM

Gonzales, La. —

Members of Ascension Amateur Radio Club joined thousands of other amateur radio operators nationwide demonstrating their emergency capabilities last weekend. On Saturday and Sunday, folks met with amateur – also known as “ham” – radio operators to see technology that allows the operators to provide critical information and communications during emergency situations. Al Taillon of Gonzales, the club’s treasurer, said this is an annual event known as Field Day, which is sponsored by the American Radio Relay League – the national association for Amateur Radio. “The event is three-fold,” he said. “First of all, it’s a drill to set up our trailer and equipment. In the event of an emergency we may have to set up out in a remote location somewhere, so this is good practice. Second, it’s a public awareness event; and, third, it’s a contest to contact as many other ham stations as possible in a 24-hour period.” Todd Trosclair, the club’s vice president, said it took approximately two hours to set up the mobile station. “We run our equipment on a battery and a generator,” he said, noting that they can alternate power sources as needed. The outdoor equipment included a pneumatic telescoping mast with a camera, satellite antenna and emergency repeater, which is used for amplifying the signal; and, a crank-up tower located on a separate trailer. Inside equipment included: a command center, state police and other .. (more...)

Emergency communication devices need to be checked regularly for condition. Batteries need to be replaced or recharged on occasion. Extra batteries stored must also be checked and replaced if needed. If you need to evacuate is the equipment in a portable bag ready to go with you? Learning the basics of Morse code and the language of radio is an essential set of skills for communication in preparedness. Ham radio operators require certification to have and use these advanced tools. Taking a class on using any of these communication skills should be on your emergency preparedness to do list!

That radio or whistle may save a life or be a beacon of hope.