Galveston County, TX

Staying Connected When It Matters Most: Crafting Your Hurricane Communication Plan in Galveston County

When a hurricane threatens, the power of communication cannot be underestimated. In Galveston County, where hurricanes are a familiar adversary, having a well-thought-out communication plan can make all the difference between safety and uncertainty. This article serves as your guide to developing a robust communication strategy that will keep you informed, connected, and secure during and after a hurricane.

Write Down Important Contact Numbers: Your Lifeline to Loved Ones

In the midst of chaos, a simple piece of paper can be a lifeline. Create a contact list that includes the following:

Emergency Services: Include local police, fire departments, and medical facilities.

Family and Friends: List contact numbers for immediate family members, close friends, and neighbors.

Out-of-Area Contact: Designate a friend or family member outside of the region who can act as a central point of contact for updates and information.

Work Contacts: If needed, include numbers for your workplace and colleagues.

Share Evacuation Plans with Neighbors: Strength in Unity

Community support can be invaluable during a hurricane. Share your evacuation plans with neighbors and encourage them to do the same.  Exchange information and discuss evacuation routes, contact information, and alternate communication methods. Make a pact to check on each other's safety after the storm has passed.

Choose an Out-of-Area Point of Contact: A Beacon in the Storm

Having an out-of-area point of contact can be a game-changer when local communication lines are down. Often when cell phone towers are jammed during disasters, signals can still be sent to phones outside of the impacted region. Nominate someone who can relay messages between family members and friends. Instruct everyone to contact this person if they're safe and share their whereabouts, using text messages if cell phone coverage is not available.

Galveston County Emergency Management Resources: A Source of Accurate Information

The Galveston County Office of Emergency Management (GCOEM) is a reliable source of information before, during, and after a hurricane.  As the only emergency management office in the United States co-located with the National Weather Service, GCOEM provides you with the accurate information you need to make decisions. 

Stay Updated: Visit GCOEM's website (GCOEM.org) for accurate updates, news, and instructions.

Emergency Alerts: Sign up for emergency alerts through GCOEM's notification system to receive important updates directly.

Social Media: Follow GCOEM's social media channels for real-time information and guidance.

• Twitter/X: GalvCountyOEM

• Facebook: GalvestonCountyTX

Alternate Communication Methods: Redundancy is Key

When cellular service and internet are disrupted, having alternative communication methods can be a lifesaver:

Walkie-Talkies: Invest in walkie-talkies for short-range communication with neighbors or family members. These may be helpful for communicating in an evacuation caravan if local cell phone towers are overwhelmed. 

Satellite Phones: Satellite phones can work even when regular cell networks are down. Make sure you have saved important numbers in your sat phone to facilitate easy communication.

Emergency Radios: Battery-powered or hand-crank emergency radios can provide essential updates.

A hurricane's fury can disrupt the very fabric of communication, but a well-prepared communication plan can provide you with a lifeline when you need it most. By writing down important contact numbers, sharing evacuation plans with neighbors, designating an out-of-area contact, utilizing Galveston County Emergency Management resources, and exploring alternate communication methods, you can stay informed, connected, and safe in the face of adversity. Remember, the strength of a community lies in its ability to come together during challenging times. Stay connected, stay prepared, and stay resilient. Preparedness saves lives.