How to Communicate During a Disaster

After a major disaster, there is a good chance that there won't be any electricity and cell phone towers will be jammed.  On Urban Survival Site is a great post about how to communicate when the power is down and cell phones aren't working.
Below is a list of useful communication devices that everyone should have, just in case.

• Communication Radios – Walkie talkies, CB radios, and short waves.
• Fire and Screen – Smoke signals are great if you need help. You can also use different colors of smoke for different messages.
• Mirrors – Using a small mirror to signal works well in the day time.  If you have a mirror with a hole in the middle it will help with aiming.  CD also work an have a hole in the middle for aiming.
• Noise Maker – Air horns, bird calls, whistle’s, drums, or anything else that can make a loud noise and be distinguished by the parties involved.
• Flares – You can purchase a flare gun at most marine shops or online.
• Marking Instruments – Chalk, paint, flour, etc.

In our age of technology, most people take communication for granted, but if for some reason that technology isn't working, you should be prepared with a backup. For more on communicating during a disaster, check out the post on Urban Survival Site.