Emergency Communications

EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS Before, during and after a natural disaster or emergency, swift and reliable communications are essential. Modern technology provides vital links on which humanitarian teams rely. TV and radio Satellites monitor the Earth for broadcasts give vital information. extreme weather and disasters such as floods and wildfires. They can also transmit phone calls and Internet access to victims and rescuers on the ground. Earthquake alerts come from sensors on land. Medical advice and diagnoses are sent to isolated areas via Portable satellite broadband wireless. equipment provides wireless links. Sensors on submarine communication cables can monitor ocean conditions. When phone wires and mobile masts are broken, emergency Networks of buoys in the ocean transmit tsunami warnings via satellite. communications must take over. Technical standards from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) allow emergency communication systems to work together seamlessly. ITU also ensures that special radio frequencies are kept clear for emergencies, helps developing countries establish emergency plans and early warning systems, and sends practical aid in disasters and expertise to restore networks. ITU www.itu.int/emergencytelecoms