Illustrative contemporary emergency care pavilion with an accessible covered entrance

UNITED STATES SERVICE CORPS

Emergency Communication

Clear information · Trusted contacts · A shared plan

Official Resources Make a Communication Plan

Stay connected when access is limited

Prepare a communication plan before it is needed, using locally confirmed contacts and arrangements. Discuss it with the people involved and keep a paper copy. This tool records your plan; it does not send messages, monitor check ins, or arrange emergency assistance.

Explore Emergency Telecommunications Resources

A message people can act on

State who is reporting, the location needed for the recipient, and the time
Describe what you know and mark what remains uncertain
State the specific assistance or information requested
Give a safe way to reply and request acknowledgement

Share sensitive details only with the appropriate recipient. Follow local instructions and use the communication methods available in your area.

Emergency Communication PlanLocation and plan review date

Country, region, and a general area. Avoid publishing sensitive locations.

Official emergency and local support contacts

Record the agency, contact method, coverage area, official source, and date confirmed.

Trusted contact outside the affected area

Agree in advance who can receive and pass on a brief update. Share personal details only with consent.

Primary communication method

Record the locally agreed method and when it will be checked.

Alternative if the primary network fails

Discuss feasible options with local authorities or established organizations. Do not assume SMS, radio, satellite, or any number works everywhere.

Agreed meeting arrangements

Choose with household or community members in advance, subject to local safety and evacuation guidance.

Brief message to share

Include who is reporting, general location, time, what is known, the help requested, and a safe reply method. Mark uncertain information.

Language, disability, and caregiver access needs

Plan for an interpreter, accessible format, trusted caregiver, or other practical support.

Power and paper copies

Consider charging arrangements and who should have a printed copy. Keep it private and update it.

Next check in and confirmation

Record who acknowledged the message and the next agreed contact time. A sent message is not confirmation of help.

Keep a copy available

Download text or print a PDF for a copy you can read without a connection. The standalone HTML planner below can also be saved and opened in a compatible browser without internet. External resource links still require a connection. Your answers are not automatically saved.

Download the Offline Communication Planner