While the telephone system is one of the most reliable public utilities, it is not 100% reliable during disasters such as earthquakes, floods, storms, and power failures. A little preparation can go a long way. Here are some tips that can help you minimize difficulties.

Disaster Telecom Preparation Tips Back To Top

1. Consider testing an alternative long distance dial-around carrier to be prepared in the event of your primary long distance carrier's systems being overloaded.These dial-arounds route your long distance calls over alternative systems in the event that your primary long distance carrier is experiencing difficulties.

2. Make sure to have access to a standard non-external power, non-cordless telephone. In the event of a power failure externally powered phones may not be able to place or receive calls even if the telephone system is operating correctly.

3. Have a battery-powered AM/FM radio on hand. In the event of a communications or electrical disruption some radio stations will be operating on back-up power.

4. In the event of an electrical storm, do not use a corded telephone. Also, unplug modems, faxes, and computers from the phone line. There is a possibility of an electrical charge running through the line.

What to do in the event of a telephone system disruption? Back To Top

1. Do not make unnecessary phone calls during the period following a disaster. This will be a peak usage period. Leave the lines open for emergency calls.

2. If you do require the phone and do not receive a dial tone immediately when picking up, do not hang up. The phone may still be working but you may have to wait several minutes before receiving a dial tone.

3. If you do receive a dial tone but are unable to complete a call (either experience "dead air" or a fast busy signal), consider using a dial-around carrier to route the call over an alternative network. There is rate information available about numerous dial-around programs on the rates comparison tools.

4. Do not call 9-1-1 unless you have a police, fire, or medical emergency. Creating unnecessary traffic for the 9-1-1 system may prevent true emergencies from receiving timely attention.

5. In the event of a police, fire, or medical emergency and a telephone system failure, go to your nearest fire or police station. These stations have radio communications with central 9-1-1 centers. You can report emergencies in person at any of these locations.