Crisis management teams have a variety of communication methods available to them when disseminating warnings or exchanging information. Redundancy is key as there are few fail safes in technology. The current trend encourages texting as it requires less bandwidth than a cell phone call. However, recent tornadic events have proven that when a crisis looms, all thumbs start texting possibly causing a system overload. Surprisingly, two sources that are diminishing in use, have proven quite reliable during severe weather threats and recovery: landlines and two-way radio.
For a more in-depth review, read the full article from APWA Reporter, Jan. 2012 issue “Emergency Management” and check out the entire issue of the APWA Reporter from January to read more on Emergency Preparedness & Management.