Communication

Have important phone numbers written down. The City of Seattle has provided this nice printable PDF. Fill it out and include it in your 72 Hour Kit.

It is also good to review a family plan detailing how you will check in with each other after a major natural disaster.

During a major disaster cellphone networks can become overwhelmed. It is better to text than call, as texts (SMS messages) will keep retrying to send until they can get through the network. You can read the techie details here.

The following signs can be printed onto standard sized paper and are used in home windows after a major disaster to help direct emergency workers. You can print a set to include in your kit here.

Radio

Why it is important to have an emergency radio and not just a cellphone – basically better battery life and multiple recharging options. And a radio does not get overwhelmed by network usage.

Most emergency radios also pick up the NOAA Weather radio channels, which broadcast continuous weather and emergency information.

KIRO (710 AM) is the federally designated emergency radio station that will broadcast information for the Seattle area during an actual emergency.

TIP – write with a Sharpy or put a sticker on your emergency radio that says KIRO 710 AM

Product Recommendations

Basic option recommendation – RunningSnail brand – $18 (Amazon.com)

Better option recommendation – RunningSnail brand – $36 (Amazon.com). This has an option for recharging a cellphone.

Best option recommendation – Midland brand – $60 (Amazon.com). It has better reception, a brighter flashlight, and quicker hand-crack recharging rate. It can also recharge a cellphone. It also has superior waterproofing.

Backup charging plan

While you can recharge a phone off of a laptop, or even through a car, the best solution for short-term on-the-go recharging is a battery pack.

Some portable battery packs also have the ability to jump start a car. Make sure to plug in the portable battery and ensure it has a full charge every 6-12 months.

Product recommendation: Halo Bolt battery pack ~ $100 (Amazon.com). I have used this to jump start my car multiple times, and it really is a great piece of emergency equipment.