Disaster Telecommunications An early draft Ray J. Vaughan, MS Last update 6/16/2015

Disaster Telecommunication  Radio communication is the most useful telecommunication service, but not the only. Even in the middle of nowhere, many telecommunication systems exist, but need to be planned and executed carefully.

Define Needs  Long or short term disaster situation  Radio is good, but sometimes other technology is better  Picture = 1000 words  Fax? Data?  Client confidentiality issues No victim names over radio

Ham Radio  FCC Amateur Radio = Ham Radio  Amateur means unpaid, not unprofessional  Needs a presentation of it’s own  ANYTHING possible on any other telecommunication system is possible with Amateur Radio  In an emergency, even the liberal rules are waived to allow even more.

FRS  Most common radios today  Many homes own at least one  Good for mass communication  FRS one for emergencies

Cellular  Good backup to landline phones  Cell sites will be loaded with full time connections for the media  It may be possible to prioritize your calls in the case of cellular overload

Power sources  See presentation on Emergency Power Sources

Telephone Lines  Is it a declared emergency?  Commandeer telephone lines  Not shared with anyone except the owner  Usually more stable than any wireless solution

Where to find a line  Telephone cross boxes  Network interfaces on buildings  Phone rooms  Long temporary runs are possible  Contact telco representative at the EOC with line number, request for your own emergency lines on those pairs

Internet  Why? Weather data News Databases, GIS  DirectPC One way with phone line Two way satellite no line needed  Nextel Wireless Internet service  RAMData Blackberry

Wireless Networking  , Wi-Fi  PC Cards  Within the CP  To the Internet Existing services Temporary link to CP Not secure

TV  Local news  Diversion  Entertain the effected Projection TV and movies  Cable TV connections May be out of service  Little dish (DSS) service

Summary  Be willing to think outside of the box  Have the tools and parts ready for many situations  Define need, then think of any possible solution, then pick the best one available.  Practice scenarios with every drill Never the way solution twice