Emergency Communications: The Best Ways to Stay Connected in a Disaster

Whatever your budget, there are readily available alternative options when phone lines or Internet connections fail.

Anyone can get a ham radio license, which will let you communicate with fellow operators across the country and world. Aubord Dulac/Shutterstock

We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases, which supports truthful and independent journalism.

Because cellphone towers and internet connections are vulnerable to disruption by disasters natural or otherwise, it’s a good idea to have alternative ways to stay in touch during emergencies.

Two-way radios are a great option. These radios are a far cry from the single-channel walkie-talkies used by kids. Some two-way radios can be used right out of the box, while others require varying levels of training and licensing. Family Radio Service (FRS) and Citizens Band (CB) radios are good starting points because they don’t require a license to operate.

FRS

FRS radios are ideal for short-range communications, with a typical range of about two miles in open areas during clear weather conditions. However, that range shortens to as little as a half mile in inclement weather conditions or urban areas full of buildings, power lines, and other obstructions.