Tip of the week: Text, Don’t Call!!

September is National Preparedness Month!

Tip of the week: Text, Don’t Call!!

I M OK.

R U OK?
In the immediate aftermath of a disaster, networks can become jammed with people trying to call their loved ones to find out if they are okay. For instance, during last month’s East Coast earthquake, concerned friends and relatives called to check on their families, causing the phone systems to shut down. Unable to get through, text messaging proved to be a quick and reliable means of communication. People were able to communicate with their loved ones in an instance.
Remember, if your need is not emergent, text first, don’t call! This will leave lines open for emergency responders to communicate with each other, as well as those who are in critical condition and need help.

Sending short text messages is a quick and effective way to establish contact with family members and friends without tying up vital airwaves.

Tell the important people in your life that texting is your preferred method of communication in the event of a disaster. Make sure everyone in your family, particularly parents and grandparents, knows how to text. Then, conduct a quick emergency texting drill by simply texting “R U OK?” and waiting for others to respond “I M OK.”

Remember, September is National Preparedness Month – the perfect time to Get Ready. Visit http://www.ready.wv.gov/ for additional information and stay tuned for more weekly tips from the WV National Preparedness Committee.

Thank You,

WV NPM Committee