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> what happens when all else fails? Ham radio!(preparedness and emergency communications)

BGAN terminals and satellite phones?



Well generally when all else fails you want to talk more to local people. The ones that can help with the basics like food, shelter, water, meds, etc.

Family radios (FRS) are as easy to use as the old school walky talkies. They are also cheap, pairs are sold in the $30-$100 range. Sprinkle a few of those around the neighbors.

Sure a 2M HT isn't as user friendly, but a local ham can talk to the neighbors (in person or FRS) and then coordinate the other local people over 2M (often repeaters are on solar+battery). Said ham might even participate in emergency nets and have contacts inside various emergency organizations. Could likely figure out when water trucks are stopping by, food deliveries, expected projections for returning power, even help get prescription meds delivered.

Sure if it's bad enough HF might be needed. But even 2M + FRS can be a huge help to an impacted community.


The real advantage of HAM radio is that you own all the associated infrastructure. Everything you need to send a message across the planet can be packed up and carried with you. The same cannot be said of the satellite - though it's certainly a easier option in most cases.




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