What to Do When 911 Is Down: Creating a Safety Plan That Could Save Your Life

Emergencies can happen at any time, and we often take for granted the ability to dial 911 for immediate help. But what happens when 911 services are down? Outages, while rare, can occur during major disasters, cyber-attacks, or technical failures. In such times, having a predetermined safety plan with your family or roommates is not just wise—it could be lifesaving. Here's how to prepare an effective emergency plan and why incorporating a tool like the RedSOS app can ensure you always have a lifeline.

Developing a Comprehensive Safety Plan:

1. Gather Information: Start by collecting all essential contact information, including local emergency services like the fire department, police station, and hospitals. Also, list contacts for immediate family members, neighbors, and close friends who can be reached during an emergency.

2. Assign Roles: Determine who in your household is responsible for what during various types of emergencies. Who grabs the emergency kit? Who is responsible for contacting emergency services? Who checks on elderly neighbors? Assigning roles ensures that everyone knows their tasks and can act quickly under stress.

3. Plan Evacuation Routes: Identify safe exit routes from your home and establish meeting points outside your house and in the neighborhood. Practice these routes to ensure everyone knows them by heart.

4. Establish Communication Strategies: Decide how you will communicate if local phone services are unavailable. Text messages can often go through when phone calls can't. Have a battery-powered radio handy to receive information if the power is out.

5. Educate Everyone: Every member of the household should be familiar with how to use fire extinguishers, perform basic first aid, and recognize natural gas leaks. Regularly review these skills and hold practice drills.

6. Document and Distribute the Plan: Write everything down, make copies, and ensure every family member or roommate has one. Store it in an easily accessible place and revisit the plan annually or whenever your living situation changes.

Why Include RedSOS in Your Emergency Plan
In the event of a 911 outage, having an alternative way to call for help is crucial. Redsos is a 24/7 emergency response app that operates independently of 911, using its own communication and location-sharing technology to connect users directly with emergency services.

Features of RedSOS:

• 24/7 Panic Button: At the touch of a button, RedSOS alerts emergency services and provides them with your exact location, even if traditional systems are down.
• Smart Check-In: For those especially vulnerable or in high-risk situations, the smart check-in feature ensures that someone knows you are safe. If a check-in is missed, RedSOS can alert your emergency contacts or services.
  
  

The Benefits of Being Prepared
​Taking just five minutes to create a safety plan with those you live with might save your life. In situations where every second counts, having a plan—and a backup means of getting help—can make all the difference. Not only does it reduce panic and confusion, but it also streamlines your response, allowing you to act effectively.

A safety plan supported by tools like RedSOS not only enhances your preparedness but also gives you peace of mind knowing that you have contingencies in place. Remember, in an emergency, being prepared is not just about protecting yourself—it's about ensuring the safety and security of all those you care about.

Incorporating a reliable emergency app like RedSOS into your plan means you’re never truly alone, even when traditional systems fail. Stay safe, stay prepared, and empower yourself and your loved ones with the knowledge and tools to face emergencies confidently.