~ SSRsi's Survival Communications Page ~

There is nothing more frustrating in uncertain times than (or as potentially dangerous as) not knowing what is going on in the outside world or the inability to communicate with allies.

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See also: Signals & Signaling page in the Communications section of the Self-Reliance pages.

COMMUNICATION FOR SURVIVAL © 2006 RogueTurtle.com - Two tin cans and a string. It still works. But in a survival situation, you just might need something a little more modern. The ability to receive information in a timely manner will greatly increase your chances of survival in almost every scenario you can think of. There are many different ways to get information. More than you're probably aware of. You just have to plan ahead to have the necessary equipment with you. Yeah, once more we're back to the 6-P's: Proper Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance.

Tactical Radio Communication Equipment and Procedures [author unknown] Reliable communications equipment is essential to any group's activities, whether you're doing a simple trashing run, or coordinating the defense of an area. Fortunately, there exists a wide range of readily available, inexpensive equipment so even "technologically challenged" organizations can play. All the equipment mentioned is available at your local Radio Shack, so procurement won't be a hassle. While not "state of the art" by any means, it nevertheless still works. If you need something more advanced, then either recruit a COM’s specialist, or learn yourself...

Communications Equipment in the Wilderness Communication in the wilderness is a matter of survival, as well as convenience. Before even leaving home, communications must begin. In fact, our first two communications tip do not even require equipment or gadgets ... (PDF) [Link recovered 4/9/11 - now hosted on site!]

SURVIVAL RADIO 101 Many survivalists are searching for a reliable means of communication and thus far have not found the answer. Many others place communications very low on the list of priorities. When times are tough and the systems currently in place are no longer functioning the survivor must be prepared to provide this most basic essential for himself. In my case, a reliable communication system is equal in importance to guns, ammo and a years supply of food. In this article I sincerely hope to pass on the knowledge and  desire to provide for this important function.

FAQ Version 1.20 (Actually contains 3 or 4 different FAQs) A topic as broad as communications can never been completely covered, especially in what should be a terse and matter-of-fact FAQ. We'll start out with the most general description we can provide, and get more specific deeper in the document... or you can check out our version of the same thing (we think it's prettier) See also: Survival Communications Primer (PDF)

Four Levels of Communication Disruption Alternative Communication Routes in the Case of an Emergency: Do you have contingency plans for being able to reach your primary contacts during each of these potential circumstances?

Survival Radio 101 - Assata Speaks Many survivalists are searching for a reliable means of communication and thus far have not found the answer. Many others place communications very low on the list of priorities. When times are tough and the systems currently in place are no longer functioning the survivor must be prepared to provide this most basic essential for himself. 

ARRLWeb: Backgrounder: Amateur Radio Emergency Communication Amateur Radio operators set up and operate organized communication networks locally for governmental and emergency officials, as well as non-commercial communication for private citizens affected by the disaster. [Link updated 4/9/11]

North American Center For Emergency Communications The primary use of the DVIS system is to quickly locate missing persons within a disaster area and reunite them with their families. To help maintain fast transfer speeds, DVIS Web pages are kept somewhat plain and the amount of artwork and images used are kept to a minimum.

Amateur Radio Emergency Communications (AREC), formerly the Amateur Radio Emergency Corps, is a service provided by the New Zealand Association of Radio Transmitters (NZART) which provides trained radio communicators and communication systems for emergency situations. [Link updated 4/9/11]

Communicating During Emergencies While there is no doubt that our country has one of the world's most extensive and dependable communications systems, unusual conditions can put a strain on it. The following information will help you better understand what happens with our communications system during an emergency and how best to use the various components of our communications system during a crisis or disaster.

Homeland Security- Emergency Communications When the power is off, phones go out and the internet is down, when police, fire, and hospital services are overwhelmed, amateur radio operators are there to take up the slack as emergency communications volunteers. They have, in fact, been there in virtually all disasters in recent memory .. Hurricanes, fires, ice storms, earthquakes, floods and so on. With a little forethought and a few bucks, you can prepare yourself for similar events in the future and avoid being incommunicado when you need it the most. 

RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service) Founded in 1952, the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) is a public service provided by a reserve (volunteer) communications group within government agencies in times of extraordinary need. During periods of RACES activation, certified unpaid personnel are called upon to perform many tasks for the government agencies they serve. Although the exact nature of each activation will be different, the common thread is communications. [Link updated 4/9/11]

The Universal Language of the Plains by Bob Campbell The babel of the Indian was conquered by simple sign or hand language. Traders, explorers, and scouts found it useful in their contact with the many tribes. It was not as simple or literal as charades, however, and had to be learned. But, once learned, it was very beneficial. (PDF) [Link recovered 4/9/11 - now hosted on site!]

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[Page updated 4/9/11]


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