Wiktor Wise
When disaster strikes and electricity is no longer accessible, it can leave people feeling disconnected and adrift. However, there are numerous ways to communicate without electricity, just as our ancestors did. From low-tech solutions like pen and paper to more complex systems such as HAM radio and FireChat, a free app that enables text messaging without an internet connection, there are options available to suit different needs and scenarios. Other methods include using hand signs and signboards, flares, air horns, mirror signalling, semaphore flags, and even carrier pigeons. These techniques can help us stay connected, informed, safe, and sane during challenging times.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Flares | |
| Air horns | |
| Hand signs | |
| Signboards | |
| Semaphore flags | |
| Mirror signaling | |
| Radios | Hand-cranked, wind-up, HAM |
| Phones | Landline, phone booths |
| Tablets/laptops | |
| BioLite | |
| FireChat |
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What You'll Learn
- Use flares and air horns to make noise and attract attention
- Use hand signs and signboards to communicate visually
- Try mirror signalling by reflecting sunlight towards your target
- Use HAM radio to communicate vital information during emergencies
- Use BioLite to produce electricity through fire while cooking food
Use flares and air horns to make noise and attract attention
When stranded in a hostile environment, either on land, at sea, or in an urban setting, it is crucial to know how to signal and attract the attention of rescuers. Flares and air horns are two effective tools for achieving this.
Hand-held flares are a widely recognized distress signal and can be easily seen, especially at night. They can also be used in conjunction with Morse code, allowing you to transmit messages over long distances. When lit, flares emit a bright light that can be seen for miles and are sure to attract attention.
Air horns, on the other hand, create a loud, attention-grabbing noise. They are commonly used in vehicles, boats, and industrial settings to alert others of potential dangers. Electronic air horns, in particular, have gained popularity due to their versatility and convenience. These devices utilize compressed air and an electric pump to generate a powerful sound wave. They can be easily activated with the push of a button or switch. When using an air horn, be mindful of hearing protection, as the loud noise can cause potential damage to your ears. Additionally, check your local laws and regulations regarding the use of air horns, as some areas have restrictions on loud noise-making devices.
If you don't have access to a pre-made air horn, you can create your own DIY drill air horn. First, select a cordless drill with a high RPM for maximum noise output. Then, attach a compatible air horn attachment to the drill chuck, ensuring a secure connection. Once the air horn is securely attached, hold the drill firmly and activate the trigger to produce the loud noise.
By utilizing flares and air horns, you can effectively attract attention and increase your chances of rescue when stranded or lost. These tools provide a visual and auditory means of communication that can be crucial in emergency situations.
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Use hand signs and signboards to communicate visually
Hand signs and signboards can be used to communicate visually when electricity is down. This method of communication is often used by protesters to convey their thoughts and can be used by anyone to convey messages during blackouts.
Signalling techniques can vary in complexity. For instance, mirror signalling is a straightforward technique that involves reflecting sunlight toward the receiver. On the other hand, semaphore flags are a more complex system that involves using two flags and communicating through flag positions. Each twirl and cross of the flags means something.
Signboards can also be used to communicate information or instructions. They use a combination of shape, colour, and symbols or pictograms. For example, a red circle and diagonal bar through the centre indicate a prohibition sign, meaning 'not permitted'. A blue circular background indicates a mandatory instruction, such as the requirement to wear a hard hat. A yellow triangle is used as a warning sign, such as 'keep clear'. Danger signs, which refer to life-threatening hazards, are triangular in shape with a yellow background and a black border.
Hand signals can also be used to transmit information visually. For instance, to indicate that a load needs to be lowered, you would point down, moving your whole hand down simultaneously.
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Try mirror signalling by reflecting sunlight towards your target
Signal mirrors are a simple, lightweight, and inexpensive tool that can be used to communicate with rescuers without electricity. They are a key item for any survival kit and can be used to send silent signals over long distances without any electronics or moving parts.
To use a signal mirror, first, face the sun and place the mirror next to your eye. If your mirror has a sight, hold it up to your eye and look through the hole. Stretch out your other arm and tilt your head down until you can see the reflection of the mirror on your hand. You are now aiming light.
Next, spread two fingers to make a V shape and guide the reflected light between them. Keep a small portion of the reflection on your fingers so you can be sure it's there. Place your target between your spread-out fingers while angling the mirror so that the reflected light remains between them.
Once the directed light is fixed on your target, flash the mirror towards them and then cover it or turn it away. Repeat this three times in quick succession. This is the international distress signal, which any rescuer should recognize.
It's important to know when to stop signalling. Once a rescuer has spotted you, avoid flashing reflected light into their eyes, as this could cause them to become blinded and crash.
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Use HAM radio to communicate vital information during emergencies
Communication is a lifeline during emergencies, and when regular methods like cell phones, the internet, and landlines fail, HAM radio can be a valuable tool. HAM radio operators can deploy ad-hoc networks, send voice or digital messages, and use off-grid power sources to stay connected when other systems fail.
To use HAM radio for vital communication during emergencies, you need to follow these steps:
Get Licensed
To operate HAM radio equipment and use certain frequencies, you will typically need a license. The Technician Class license gives you access to VHF/UHF bands, which are ideal for local emergency communications. If you want to communicate across states or help in wider-area disasters, you can aim for a General or Amateur Extra Class license.
Get Equipment
Start with a handheld radio (HT), which is often battery-powered and can be charged via USB-C. You can expand your setup with mobile radios or HF gear, depending on your specific needs and the groups you plan to communicate with. Ensure your radio covers the 2-meter band and 70CM HAM bands, which are commonly used for local and regional communication.
Get Trained
Join a local amateur radio club or organization, such as the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) or the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES). These groups can provide valuable guidance on equipment and training. Participate in training courses like Emergency Communications 101 or EmComm 101 to learn about relaying messages and integrating with professional emergency services.
Practice Emergency Protocols
Study and practice emergency communication protocols to understand how to effectively communicate during chaotic situations. Learn the common emergency frequencies, such as the nationwide emergency channel for the National Guard (34.90 MHz) and the emergency communication channel for local and state police (39.46 MHz).
Stay Informed and Help Others
During emergencies, use your HAM radio to gather vital information from local, national, and worldwide sources. Monitor local fire, police, and weather radio channels, as well as HAM bands and repeater networks. When others are in need, you can use your HAM radio skills to volunteer in disaster response efforts, providing a vital communication link to those affected.
By following these steps, you can effectively use HAM radio to communicate vital information during emergencies, ensuring that you stay informed, connected, and able to assist others when traditional communication methods are unavailable.
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Use BioLite to produce electricity through fire while cooking food
If you're looking for ways to communicate with rescuers when there's no electricity, one option is to use a BioLite stove to generate electricity through fire while also cooking food. BioLite is a New York City-based startup that produces off-grid energy products, including wood-burning stoves that use thermoelectric technology to create usable electricity from the heat of their fires.
The BioLite CampStove 2 is a biomass stove that burns wood, twigs, and other natural fuel sources to generate fire for cooking while also producing electricity. It has nozzles that direct air jets into the combustion chamber to create a hot, smokeless fire. This stove can boil a liter of water in under five minutes and can be used to recharge smartphones and other devices via USB. However, it may not provide enough power to recharge larger smartphones from 0 to 100%.
The CampStove 2 is easy to set up and fuel, and it burns cleanly with minimal ash leftover. It is priced at around $145, making it a cost-effective option for camping or outdoor use. It's important to note that this stove is designed for outdoor use only, as fire can be dangerous if not properly contained and ventilated.
While using the BioLite stove to cook your meals, you can simultaneously charge your devices and maintain communication with rescuers or loved ones. This multi-purpose functionality can be especially useful during power outages, outdoor adventures, or in off-grid communities.
In addition to the CampStove 2, BioLite offers other products like the SolarHome 620, a solar-powered lighting, charging, and radio system, as well as rechargeable lights and lanterns that can supply power to external devices via USB. These products provide versatile options for generating electricity and staying connected during emergencies or off-grid situations.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a hand crank radio to stay updated with news and weather reports. Amateur HAM radio is another option, although a license is required to operate one.
Flares, air horns, hand signs, and signboards can be used to communicate with rescuers.
FireChat is a free app that allows users to send text messages and images without an internet connection. It only requires that both parties have the app installed.
