How to Make an Emergency Communication Plan with your family

When the grid goes dark and signals vanish, a solid plan is what keeps your family connected. I’ve seen enough blackout drills and real scenarios to know that thinking ahead on communication can save lives. It’s not just about having a walkie or a satellite phone — it’s about making sure everyone’s on the same page, no matter what.

Do you remember the national blackout in Spain? Well, my friend, who is a prepper like me (he is Spanish and lives in the south of the peninsula), had given his mother a walkie-talkie some time ago, so that if something happened they could communicate. He was 3 hours with the walkie on, waiting for his mother to answer and she (I don’t know why she had it) kept it in a room. My friend found out because he had to walk to the other side of town to ask her if she was ok, if she needed anything and to tell her… “What the fuck do you want the walkie I gave you for? (Literal words)

Well, that’s what I’m telling you, you have to take it seriously and make an emergency communication plan and that the whole family is clear about it and is willing to comply with it.

Establish Your Communication Strategy

First, figure out your main methods. Think: cell phones, radios, written notes — whatever works in your area. If cell coverage drops, a handheld ham radio can be a lifesaver. I’ve used those in the woods, and trust me, they work like a charm. But here’s the catch: everyone needs to know how to operate it. That means training your family, not just throwing a device in a drawer.

Next, pick a few meeting points. One close, one farther away. Maybe a neighbor’s house or a local park. When things go sideways, you want to avoid confusion. Make sure everyone memorizes these spots. And I’d suggest writing down directions, just in case someone forgets or gets lost.

Implement a Simple Message System

Then, establish a code or a simple message system. Something quick and clear. Like, “Area clear” for safe, “Need help” if someone’s in trouble. Keep it simple — no need for Morse code if everyone can just understand the basics. And by the way, they also say that having a prearranged signal, like a flashlight flash or a whistle, helps in noisy or dark environments.

Family Contact and Emergency Preparedness

A crucial part often overlooked: family contact lists. Keep one paper copy, hidden away but accessible. Phones die, batteries run out. I built a laminated list that I update every year. It’s got emergency contacts, local hospitals, and a few trusted friends. When everything falls apart, that paper might be your only lifeline.

Practice and Learn Your Devices

Now, about communication devices. Don’t just buy them; learn how to use them. Practice with your family. Set up drills. When you do this regularly, you’ll spot gaps and fix them before real trouble hits. I remember trying to get my kids to understand radios — at first, chaos. But after a few drills, they knew what to do. That’s the key: repetition.

Preparing for No Power or Coverage

And let’s move on to the tricky part — no coverage, no power. Solar chargers are great, but they need sun. Backup batteries are cheap, and you should keep plenty around. Also, don’t forget old-school methods: signal fires, mirrors, or even hand signals. When your tech fails, your brains and simple tools are what matter.

One last thing: communication plans aren’t static. Review and update them often. Kids grow, technology changes, new threats emerge. Keep it fresh. Sit down with your family, go over everything, and ask: “Are we ready?” That’s how you stay prepared.

The Importance of Calm and Practice

By the way, they also say that in a real emergency, calm and clear communication can make all the difference. Never assume everyone remembers everything. Practice makes perfect.

Take Action Today

So, do you dare to give it a try? Put together your plan today. Write down your methods, pick your meeting points, learn how your gear works. Small steps now can keep your family connected when it really counts. And don’t forget: even in the worst chaos, a well-practiced plan keeps you a step ahead.

Start today. Comment below if you’ve got your plan, or tell me what you’re working on. Let’s get prepared, and I’ll catch you in the next one!

Luke Harper

I am very prepper, to be honest. Nowadays I give training courses with practices in the middle of nature. I love nature and making handmade tools with things I have on hand. I want to teach my techniques, what I have in mind for the days that may come and I like to share news about the prepper world. By the way, as an ex-military I have to tell you, fitness and self-defense training is also a must if you want to be a good prepper.