The Communication and Networking Challenge: Month 11

One of the greatest dangers during a survival situation is being isolated from others. When disaster strikes, communication networks we rely on daily—like cell phones, internet access, and landlines—can fail. I know that will be a significant issue, especially for seniors and those who live in rural areas.

Without our ability to reach family members, coordinate plans, or access critical updates, we are left vulnerable. The inability to communicate will create fear and confusion, leaving us seniors guessing about our loved ones’ safety or the evolving threats around us. In a true SHTF scenario, isolation can feel overwhelming, compounding the stress of an already dire situation.

Imagine being in the middle of a natural disaster, completely cut off from the world. You don’t know where to go for safety or whether it’s safe to stay where you are. You may have no way to learn whether the roads are navigable, whether rescue operations are underway, or whether supplies are available nearby.

My husband has been operating a ham radio setup since the early 1990s. We have always lived in a rural area, so he was able to erect a very tall radio tower. He was even able to deconstruct it to move it to another rural area that we had purchased in 2007. He’s a handy man to have as a husband 🙂

More importantly, you may have no way of knowing whether your family members are safe, let alone how to reconnect with them. These situations lead to unnecessary risks, poor decisions, and emotional strain.

The problem isn’t just the breakdown of formal communication systems. A lack of preparation and planning can make the situation even worse. Most people have little to no backup for communicating when traditional methods fail.

Without prearranged plans or alternative communication tools, they’re left trying to navigate the chaos alone. This isolation limits your access to critical information, resources, and support networks that could make all the difference in a survival situation.

The solution is to prepare yourself with the skills, tools, and strategies needed to stay connected, even when traditional communication methods fail.

By learning alternative ways to communicate, building reliable networks, and practicing your plans, you ensure that you and your loved ones can navigate emergencies effectively.

Communication isn’t just about staying informed—it’s about ensuring safety, maintaining morale, and fostering collaboration to overcome challenges together.

Learning to Use Two-Way Radios and HAM Radios for Survival

In a survival situation, two-way radios and HAM radios are invaluable tools for staying connected when traditional communication networks fail. Each has its own unique strengths, rules, and applications, making them essential for both short- and long-range communication.

Related: How to Plan for a Power Outage: Your Edge in the Dark

Understanding how to use these devices, including the legal requirements and practical benefits, ensures you can communicate effectively during emergencies and maintain situational awareness.

Two-Way Radios: Simple, Reliable Communication

Two-way radios, also known as walkie-talkies, are compact devices that allow for direct communication between users over a specific frequency range. They are particularly effective for short-range communication, making them ideal for coordinating with family members, neighbors, or team members in proximity.

Range and Limitations

Two-way radios typically have a range of 1 to 5 miles, though this varies based on the terrain, weather conditions, and the quality of the device. Urban environments with buildings and other obstructions can significantly reduce their effective range, while open areas or elevated positions may allow for greater distances.

To maximize range and clarity, use higher-end models that operate on both the Family Radio Service (FRS) and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) bands. FRS radios are license-free but have limited power output (up to 2 watts), making them suitable for smaller areas.

GMRS radios, on the other hand, require a license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. Still, they offer higher power output (up to 50 watts) and extended range, especially when paired with a base station or an external antenna.

Applications in Survival Scenarios

Two-way radios excel in scenarios where immediate, localized communication is essential. During an evacuation, they help keep family members in contact, ensuring no one gets lost or separated.

In search-and-rescue efforts, two-way radios allow teams to coordinate efficiently without relying on cellular networks. Neighborhood preparedness groups provide a simple way to share updates or alert others to potential threats.

Many two-way radios also include weather channels, such as NOAA Weather Radio, providing critical updates on severe weather conditions. This feature allows you to monitor evolving threats and adjust your plans accordingly.

Learning to Use Two-Way Radios

Using two-way radios is straightforward, but practicing with them is crucial to ensure proficiency. Familiarize yourself with the following basics:

• Channel Selection: Choose a channel free from interference and communicate this to all parties involved.
• Push-to-Talk (PTT) Button: Press and hold the PTT button while speaking and release it when finished to listen.
• Call Signs: Establish call signs or names for each user to maintain clarity and avoid confusion.
• Radio Etiquette: Keep messages concise, use plain language, and confirm receipt with phrases like “copy that” or “over.”

Regularly practice using your two-way radios with family members to build confidence and establish clear communication protocols.

Read this: How to Use Shortwave or Ham Radios for Long-Distance Communication

HAM Radios: Long-Range Communication and Versatility

HAM radios, or amateur radios, are powerful tools for long-range communication. Unlike two-way radios, which are limited to specific frequencies and range, HAM radios operate on a broad spectrum of frequencies. They can reach distances of hundreds or even thousands of miles. This makes them indispensable for staying connected in large-scale emergencies or when coordinating with individuals outside your immediate area.

The Basics of HAM Radios

HAM radios consist of a transmitter, receiver, and antenna, allowing you to send and receive signals on various frequency bands. They come in several forms, including handheld units (known as HTs or “handie-talkies”), mobile units for vehicles, and base stations for permanent setups.

One of the key advantages of HAM radios is their ability to operate on High Frequency (HF), Very High Frequency (VHF), and Ultra High Frequency (UHF) bands. Each band has unique characteristics:

• HF Bands: Ideal for long-distance communication, especially for reaching other states or countries.
• VHF Bands: Effective for medium-range communication, particularly in open areas or rural environments.
• UHF Bands: Best for short-range communication in urban areas with obstacles like buildings.

HAM radios also support simplex (direct user-to-user) and duplex (via repeaters to extend range) communication. Repeaters, typically installed in high locations like towers or mountains, amplify signals, enabling communication over much greater distances.

Licensing Requirements

Operating a HAM radio legally requires obtaining an amateur radio license. In the United States, the FCC offers three license levels: Technician, General, and Extra. The Technician license is the entry-level certification and allows access to most VHF and UHF frequencies, which are sufficient for local communication.

The General and Extra licenses provide access to more bands, including HF, for long-distance communication. To obtain a license, you must pass an exam covering radio operation, safety, and regulations.

Study materials, online courses, and local amateur radio clubs can help you prepare. Once licensed, your callsign (issued by the FCC) becomes your unique identifier on the airwaves.

Applications in Survival Scenarios

HAM radios are particularly valuable in large-scale disasters when other communication methods fail. They enable you to:

• Monitor Emergency Frequencies: HAM operators often share real-time updates about weather, road conditions, and evacuation zones.
• Coordinate with Distant Contacts: Reach family members or support networks outside the affected area.
• Relay Critical Information: Serve as a communication hub for your community, relaying messages between groups or individuals.

HAM radios also support digital modes, enabling the transmission of text messages, images, and data even in low-bandwidth conditions.

Learning to Use HAM Radios

Becoming proficient with a HAM radio requires practice and familiarity with its functions. Start by learning the following:

• Tuning Frequencies: Adjust the radio to specific frequencies for communication or monitoring.
• Repeater Usage: Identify and connect to local repeaters for extended range.
• Emergency Protocols: Understand how to call for help using the “Mayday” or “SOS” signals.

Joining a local HAM radio club is an excellent way to gain hands-on experience and connect with other operators who can guide you in using the equipment effectively.

Comparing Two-Way and HAM Radios

Both two-way and HAM radios have distinct strengths, and understanding their differences helps you choose the right tool for each scenario.

• Range: HAM radios offer significantly greater range, especially when using HF bands or repeaters. Two-way radios are better suited for localized communication.
• Licensing: HAM radios require a license to operate legally, while FRS two-way radios do not. GMRS radios require a license but no exam.
• Ease of Use: Two-way radios are simpler and more user-friendly, making them ideal for beginners or quick deployment. HAM radios require more technical knowledge and setup.
• Cost: Two-way radios are generally more affordable, while HAM radios can range from budget-friendly handheld models to expensive base stations.

Integrating Both Systems

For comprehensive preparedness, consider incorporating both two-way and HAM radios into your communication plan. Use two-way radios for immediate, short-range communication with family or neighbors, while relying on HAM radios for long-distance coordination and monitoring emergency updates.

Practicing with both ensures you can seamlessly switch between systems as needed, keeping you connected no matter the circumstances. Two-way radios and HAM radios are indispensable tools for survival communication.

By learning their capabilities, licensing requirements, and practical applications, you empower yourself to stay informed and maintain critical connections during emergencies. With regular practice and proper equipment, you can ensure reliable communication and enhance your resilience in any situation.

Building a Network and Practicing Communication During Outages

In a survival situation, communication isn’t just about staying connected with your immediate family. It’s also about creating and maintaining a network of people who can share information, provide support, and collaborate during emergencies.

By building a comprehensive list of emergency contacts and practicing communication methods during outages, you ensure you’re prepared for the realities of a disconnected world. Additionally, joining or starting a local prepper group can create valuable relationships and resources for skill-sharing and mutual assistance.

Building a Comprehensive Emergency Contact List

A well-organized emergency contact list is essential for survival. This list ensures you can reach the people who matter most, as well as organizations and resources that can provide critical support during a crisis.

Key People to Include

• Family Members: Ensure every immediate family member’s contact information is included, along with alternative ways to reach them, such as workplace numbers or secondary phone numbers.
• Neighbors: Close neighbors are often your first source of help in emergencies. Include the contact details of trusted neighbors who are willing to collaborate in disaster scenarios.
• Friends and Extended Family: Include friends and relatives outside your immediate area who can act as a secondary communication point if local networks fail.
• Medical Contacts: List your primary doctor, pediatrician (if applicable), and any specialists your family relies on. Also, include nearby hospitals and urgent care centers.
• Emergency Services and Organizations: Add the contact information for local law enforcement, fire departments, and community shelters. In addition, list non-emergency lines for municipal services.

Digital and Physical Backups

Store your contact list in multiple formats to ensure accessibility during outages. Maintain a digital version on your phone or a cloud-based platform and keep printed copies in your go-bag, wallet, or vehicle. Laminate physical copies to protect them from damage in harsh conditions.

Keep It Updated

Review and update your contact list regularly. Phone numbers, addresses, and contact preferences can change over time, so ensure your list reflects the most current information.

Practicing Communication During Outages

Having a plan on paper is one thing, but executing it effectively during a real outage requires practice. Simulating communication during emergencies helps you identify gaps in your system and ensures everyone involved knows their role.

Simulate a Network Failure

Organize a drill where you and your family practice responding to a hypothetical grid-down scenario. Turn off your phones, internet, and other communication devices for a few hours or a day. During this time:

• Use alternative communication methods, such as two-way radios or prearranged meeting points, to coordinate.
• Test your ability to relay critical information, such as evacuation plans or resource needs, without relying on modern technology.
• Identify weak points, such as unclear instructions or devices that don’t function as expected.

Set Regular Check-In Times

In prolonged emergencies, maintaining regular contact with your network helps everyone stay informed and reassured. Practice scheduling check-ins with family and friends at specific intervals. For example, agree to communicate every four hours using two-way radios or at predetermined times via a HAM radio frequency.

Assign Roles Within Your Family

Assign specific roles to each family member during a communication outage. One person might be responsible for monitoring emergency broadcasts, while another focuses on reaching out to contacts. By delegating tasks, you create a more efficient system that reduces confusion during high-stress situations.

Joining or Starting a Local Prepper Group

Building a network of like-minded individuals through a prepper group enhances your ability to survive and thrive during emergencies. These groups often share skills, resources, and knowledge, making them invaluable during both preparation and survival phases.

Benefits of Local Prepper Groups

Prepper groups offer several advantages:

• Skill Sharing: Members often have expertise in areas like first aid, gardening, construction, or HAM radio operation. Sharing these skills creates a more capable and self-sufficient group.
• Resource Pooling: Groups can share tools, equipment, or supplies, reducing the burden on individual members.
• Mutual Support: In crises, having a trusted network provides emotional and practical support, from sharing information to helping with repairs or transportation.

Finding an Existing Group

To join an existing prepper group, start by researching local community boards, online forums, or social media platforms. Websites like Meetup or Facebook often host groups dedicated to emergency preparedness or self-sufficiency. Ham radio networks and survival forums can also connect you to local prepper communities.

When joining a group, take the time to build trust and ensure the group aligns with your values and goals. Attend a few meetings or activities to gauge the group’s dynamics and commitment level.

Starting Your Own Prepper Group

If no suitable group exists in your area, consider starting your own. Begin by reaching out to neighbors, coworkers, or friends who express interest in preparedness. Host an initial meeting to discuss goals, share knowledge, and establish communication protocols.

Create a schedule for regular meetings or drills, focusing on topics like:

• Disaster-specific survival tactics (e.g., wildfire preparation or flood evacuation).
• First aid training and resource sharing.
• Communication plans using two-way or HAM radios.

Keep the group size manageable to maintain trust and efficiency. Larger groups can be divided into smaller units based on proximity or skill sets.

Maintaining and Strengthening Your Network

Building a contact list and joining a prepper group are just the first steps. Maintaining and strengthening your network ensures its effectiveness over time.

Stay in Touch Regularly

Keep communication active with your network, even outside emergencies. Regular check-ins foster relationships and ensure everyone remains on the same page regarding preparedness plans.

Participate in Group Activities

Engage actively with your prepper group by attending meetings, participating in drills, and contributing your skills or resources. This builds trust and ensures you remain an integral part of the community.

Share Knowledge and Updates

As you learn new skills or gather valuable information, share it with your network. For example, if you discover an improved evacuation route or acquire a new communication device, inform your contacts so they can benefit as well.

Building a reliable network and practicing communication during outages are critical components of survival preparedness.

By assembling a detailed contact list, practicing emergency communication, and collaborating with others through a prepper group, you create a support system that reduces isolation and enhances resilience.

These proactive steps ensure that when disaster strikes, you’re not left in the dark. Instead, you’re part of a coordinated effort to overcome challenges and stay connected with those who matter most.

Creating and Practicing a Family Communication Plan for Emergencies

When disaster strikes, having a family communication plan ensures that everyone knows how to stay connected, where to go, and what to do, even if traditional communication systems fail.

A well-thought-out plan reduces panic and confusion, providing a clear roadmap for coordinating efforts and reuniting with loved ones. Practicing the plan regularly ensures that every family member is confident and capable of executing it under pressure.

Why a Family Communication Plan Is Essential

Emergencies often disrupt the systems we rely on for communication. Cell towers may go down, internet access can fail, and landlines might become inoperable. In such situations, family members may be separated and unable to contact each other, leading to fear and uncertainty. A family communication plan bridges these gaps by pre-establishing methods and protocols for reconnecting and staying informed.

The plan also ensures that everyone is on the same page about evacuation routes, meeting points, and roles during a crisis. Whether you’re dealing with a natural disaster, power outage, or societal disruption, the ability to communicate effectively and regroup as a family is critical for survival.

Developing the Plan

Creating a family communication plan involves several key steps: identifying potential scenarios, selecting communication methods, and establishing meeting points.

1. Identify Scenarios and Risks

Begin by listing the types of emergencies most likely to affect your area, such as hurricanes, floods, wildfires, or extended power outages. Consider how each scenario could disrupt communication and mobility. For example:

• In a flood, certain roads may become impassable, isolating family members.
• A wildfire might require immediate evacuation, leaving little time for detailed coordination.

Understanding these risks allows you to tailor your plan to address the unique challenges of each situation.

2. Establish Primary and Backup Communication Methods

Choose multiple communication methods in case one fails. These may include:

• Mobile Phones: While often the first choice, cell service is unreliable in disasters. Ensure family members know how to use text messaging, as it often works when calls fail.
• Two-Way Radios: For local communication, equip family members with two-way radios. Assign a specific channel and code words to maintain privacy.
• HAM Radios: If licensed, use HAM radios for long-distance communication with family or external networks.
• Whistles or Signals: In situations where electronic devices are unavailable, teach family members to use whistles or other signaling tools to indicate their location or call for help.

3. Designate Meeting Points

Pre-determine multiple meeting points where family members can regroup if separated. Include:

• Near-Home Location: A spot just outside your home, such as a neighbor’s yard or a nearby park, for emergencies like fires or localized threats.
• Neighborhood Location: A community space, such as a library or school, accessible to all family members.
• Out-of-Area Location: A location outside your immediate area for large-scale disasters requiring evacuation.

Ensure everyone knows the locations and can navigate to them without GPS or mobile assistance.

4. Assign Roles and Responsibilities

Assign specific roles to each family member to streamline decision-making during emergencies. For example:

• One person may be responsible for retrieving go-bags.
• Another may monitor news or weather alerts.
• Someone else might coordinate communication with extended family or neighbors.

Practicing the Plan

Creating a plan is only the first step. Practicing it regularly ensures that everyone understands their responsibilities and can execute the plan efficiently under stress.

1. Conduct Family Drills

Simulate different emergency scenarios to test your communication plan. For example:

• In a wildfire scenario, practice gathering essentials, evacuating to a designated meeting point, and communicating via two-way radios.
• For a flood scenario, simulate moving to higher ground and relaying your location using a backup communication method.

During drills, evaluate how well each aspect of the plan works and make adjustments as needed.

2. Rotate Roles and Responsibilities

Ensure that every family member is familiar with multiple roles in the plan. This redundancy ensures the plan can still function effectively if a key person is unavailable or incapacitated.

3. Test Communication Devices

Regularly test all communication devices to ensure they’re functioning properly. Check battery levels, signal clarity, and the ability to connect over agreed-upon channels or frequencies. For HAM radios, practice making contact with local repeaters or distant stations to confirm your setup.

4. Practice Meeting Point Navigation

Have family members practice traveling to designated meeting points on foot, by car, or using public transportation. This ensures everyone knows the routes and can adapt if their primary path is blocked.

Preparing for Unique Family Needs

Every family has unique dynamics and requirements that must be accounted for in the communication plan. (Like, I am high-maintenance, so I need to be well-prepared.) Tailor your approach to address specific needs, such as:

• Children: Teach younger children basic safety protocols, such as staying in one place until a trusted adult arrives or using a whistle to signal their location.
• Elderly or Disabled Members: Plan for mobility assistance, such as wheelchairs or walkers, and ensure their communication devices are accessible and easy to use.
• Pets: Include pets in your plan by identifying safe spaces for them at meeting points and ensuring carriers, leashes, and food are ready for evacuation. (My dog is as big as another person. It’ll be tough to get her and her stuff in the car.)

Maintaining and Updating the Plan

A communication plan is not static. Regular updates ensure it remains relevant and practical as circumstances change.

1. Review and Update Contact Information

Verify all phone numbers, radio frequencies, and meeting point details every six months. Make updates as needed to reflect changes in family members’ locations, work schedules, or school arrangements.

2. Adapt to New Risks

As new threats or hazards emerge, revise the plan to address them. For example, if you move to a new area with a different climate or disaster profile, adjust meeting points and scenarios accordingly.

3. Keep Communication Skills Sharp

Ensure everyone remains comfortable using communication devices by integrating them into daily life. For example, use two-way radios during family outings or practice HAM radio protocols during routine drills.

The Value of a Practiced Plan

A family communication plan provides more than logistical solutions. It also fosters confidence, reduces anxiety, and ensures that everyone feels prepared for the uncertainties of emergencies.

By creating and practicing a detailed plan, you transform potential chaos into a coordinated effort, keeping your family connected and safe no matter what challenges arise. With this preparation, you can face the unexpected with the assurance that your loved ones are ready to navigate any situation together.

Investing in Communication Gear for Every Level of Preparedness

Having the right communication gear ensures you can stay connected, gather information, and coordinate actions during emergencies. From basic tools like whistles to advanced HAM radios, each piece of equipment plays a unique role in keeping you informed and linked to your family and community.

By investing in communication gear suited to various scenarios, you create a robust system that supports your survival plan across a range of situations. Learning how to choose and use this gear is just as important as acquiring it.

Basic Tools for Immediate Communication

Even in low-tech or no-power situations, simple communication tools can save lives. These items require minimal maintenance and are easy to deploy when time is critical.

Whistles and Signal Mirrors

Whistles are among the simplest and most effective tools for communicating during emergencies. They can be heard over long distances and through heavy noise, such as wind or storm conditions. Equip each family member with a whistle, and establish prearranged signals. For example:

• One long blow: “I need help.”
• Three short blows: “Emergency; regroup immediately.”

Signal mirrors, used to reflect sunlight, are another simple yet effective tool. They can send distress signals over long distances, particularly in open areas like fields or on water. Practice using signal mirrors to direct the reflected light precisely toward a target.

Handwritten Notes

In some situations, leaving notes can be an effective way to communicate when direct contact is not possible. Waterproof notebooks and pens are ideal for this purpose. Use them to leave instructions, updates, or directions for family members or rescue teams.

Mid-Level Gear for Reliable Communication

For more advanced yet user-friendly options, consider investing in tools that enable reliable communication in localized scenarios.

Two-Way Radios

Two-way radios, also known as walkie-talkies, are excellent for short-range communication. Choose models that support both Family Radio Service (FRS) and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) frequencies for greater versatility. GMRS radios provide longer range and higher power but require a license to operate legally.

When purchasing two-way radios, look for features like:

• Weather channels for receiving real-time updates.
• Rechargeable batteries for convenience during extended use.
• Water resistance for reliability in adverse conditions.

Emergency Radios

Emergency radios are designed to keep you informed during disasters by receiving weather alerts, news broadcasts, and other critical updates. Many models include features like:

• Hand-crank or solar charging for off-grid use.
• Built-in flashlights for dual functionality.
• SOS alarms for signaling emergencies.

An emergency radio with access to NOAA Weather Radio frequencies is particularly valuable, as it provides warnings for severe weather and other hazards.

High-End Gear for Long-Range and Complex Needs

For those committed to comprehensive preparedness, high-end communication gear such as HAM radios and satellite devices offers unparalleled range and reliability.

HAM Radios

HAM radios are ideal for long-distance communication during widespread emergencies. They operate on multiple frequency bands, allowing users to reach distant locations or communicate through repeaters. When choosing a HAM radio, consider the following:

• Handheld Models: Compact and portable, these are great for mobile use and can easily fit in go-bags.
• Base Stations: More powerful and feature-rich, they are ideal for home setups and extended-range use.
• Frequency Compatibility: Ensure the radio covers VHF, UHF, and HF bands for maximum versatility.

HAM radios require a license to operate legally. While obtaining a license involves passing an exam, the knowledge gained is invaluable for mastering the device and understanding communication protocols.

Satellite Phones and Messengers

Satellite phones and messengers provide global communication coverage, making them invaluable for remote or isolated locations. Satellite phones allow voice calls, while messengers like Garmin inReach or SPOT devices send text messages and GPS coordinates. These devices are handy when cellular networks are down or unavailable.

When investing in satellite communication, consider:

• Subscription plans, as these devices often require monthly service fees.
• Battery life and charging options for prolonged use.
• Ruggedness and water resistance for outdoor conditions.

Gear Maintenance and Storage

Investing in communication gear is only effective if the equipment is well-maintained and ready for use. Follow these steps to ensure your devices remain functional when you need them most.

Regular Testing

Test all communication devices periodically to ensure they work properly. For battery-powered devices, check charge levels and replace batteries as needed. For radios, tune to active frequencies and confirm transmission clarity.

Proper Storage

Store communication gear in dry, cool locations to prevent damage from moisture or heat. Use protective cases for delicate equipment, especially HAM radios and satellite devices. Keep basic tools like whistles and signal mirrors in accessible locations, such as your go-bag or car emergency kit.

Spare Parts and Accessories

Stock spare batteries, antennas, and chargers for all electronic communication devices. For HAM radios, consider additional accessories like external microphones or signal boosters. For two-way radios, keep extra earpieces for hands-free use in noisy environments.

Shopping for Communication Gear

When selecting communication gear, focus on quality and suitability for your specific needs. Cheap or poorly made devices may fail in critical moments, leaving you without options.

Consider Durability

Look for devices that are weather-resistant, shockproof, and ruggedly designed. Features like rubberized casings and water-sealed ports enhance durability in harsh conditions.

Evaluate Range and Power

For radios, range and power are key considerations. Higher-wattage devices provide greater range but may consume more battery power. Choose gear that balances range with efficiency based on your anticipated use.

Seek User-Friendly Features

Ensure devices are easy to operate, especially for family members who may not be familiar with complex equipment. Clear displays, intuitive controls, and reliable manuals make a significant difference in an emergency.

Integrating Gear Into Your Preparedness Plan

Once you’ve acquired communication gear, integrate it into your overall survival strategy. Assign specific devices to family members based on their roles, and have them practice using them during drills. For example:

• Use two-way radios during evacuation drills to coordinate movements.
• Practice making HAM radio contacts with distant locations to ensure proficiency.
• Simulate power outages and rely solely on emergency radios and satellite devices for updates.

Investing in a range of communication gear ensures that you’re prepared for any situation, from localized outages to widespread disasters. By combining basic tools with advanced technologies, maintaining your equipment, and practicing its use, you create a resilient communication system that keeps you feeling prepared,

What’s your take on this? Do you have your communication gear and system set up for a potential disaster or long-term outage?  Do you have tips, tools, or stories that could help fellow Golden Survivalists?  Drop a comment below—your insight might be precisely what someone else needs. I read every comment and reply when I can. Let’s learn from each other.