Communications During Power Outages;

Communication During Power Outages:

After a recent and violent storm which affected large areas of Victoria and inflicting serious damage and multi-service disconnections on thousands of homes, it was noted that information sharing was almost non-existent. There was a complete loss of mains power, over periods ranging from days to a week or more in some cases. This resulted in:-

·         Inability to gain information from TV or mains Radio

·         Inability to charge mobile phones from mains power

·         Inability re re-charge batteries used to power other radios (battery powered)

·         After an hour (the timespan of battery back-up) a loss all phone reception

·         Similarly, loss of internet services/NBN etc.

Our lead communicators and Emergency Management Controllers consistently advised to either go to the “app”, their internet website, or listen to the radio for more in depth and up to date information.  How you were supposed to connect to these information sources remains a mystery.  OK as long as you have Power, Phone Reception, Internet Access, and/or the ability to listen to radio over the long term etc.

So, a situation arose where scores in the community were using their vehicles to charge their phones, many simply cruising around the streets, only to find no reception and/or service. Others were unable to work from home due to the lack of internet access etc. These were in some cases the very people who work in areas such as Aged Care, Disability Services, Local Council (Emergency Management) etc. and had specific and important roles to enact during a crisis of this type.

Many of the younger generation who have grown up with technology, had no concept of what to do without their trusty mobile phone and an App to guide them along their way. How did they find out if for instance, the Supermarket was open to feed their family, if Child Care was open, so they could go to work, how to call their employment, Doctor if in need, or a business etc., without their mobile phone?

Advise was given by our communication leaders to listen to local radio. I tried this while sitting in the car waiting for my phone to recharge. I tuned in on the half hour and on the hour to both the ABC and Commercial Local Radio, to listen to the latest news. The results were to say the least uninspiring.

Information was sketchy to say the least and when wanting good concise clear information regarding what was operating what was not, who was open who was not, or simply to gain an insight into the expected longevity of the dis-connection of power, I heard advise to go to the App.  This may have been due to the stations themselves lacking in obtaining required information.

These are some of the circumstances occurring locally, not all by any stretch of the imagination but they paint a very poor picture of the preparedness of the region to deal with emergencies of this kind. As one who spent the greater part of my working life dealing with emergencies and crisis situations of one kind or another, I would assess the communication as inept, failing to meet the needs of the community indeed and in one word, pathetic.

Surely in todays technologically advanced world where we can talk to men on the moon it is not too much to ask for a professionally operated, centralised communication base that can operate round the clock, in a building with generated power and with the use of 2 way radio as a last resort,  to disseminate vital information to for instance to the ABC and Commercial stations, that information can then be fed to the community. Likewise, as has been found to be both effective in the past, to have well sited locations where this information can be posted, even if it means using pen and paper!

The community should never again be left to their own devices as was the case in the last days/weeks. As an example, in the Aged Care field, a situation occurred when staff could not operate due to lack power/services and physical attendance at the workplace. Some of our more infirm of the community were not able to be checked on for 3 days whilst having no power/services etc. This is by no means any reflection of the staff, they did what they could, but lacked the necessary equipment/technology and leadership to complete a very necessary task.

Action needs to be taken, enough costly plans have been written to no avail, enough investigations have been made and consultancies engaged with little or no meaningful and effective results. There is a mass of experience in the community perhaps able to volunteer their expertise fix the problem and fixed they must be. There have been so many emergencies in East Gippsland over the last 20 years the region should lead in the field of emergency management/communication not fail dismally as was the case in recent weeks.

Comment

Efficient communication is the cornerstone of effective coordination among emergency responders, relief organizations, and affected communities. When power is cut, clear communication channels become the lifeline for distributing resources, mobilizing assistance, and organizing response efforts.

During emergencies, timely and accurate information can be a matter of life and death. Maintaining communication ensures that essential safety instructions, evacuation plans, and updates reach the public. This helps individuals make informed decisions, reduces panic, and enhances overall community resilience.

Power outages often create an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear. Clear and consistent communication provides reassurance to the affected population. It can offer guidance on what to expect, share empathetic messages, and foster a sense of community, mitigating the psychological impact of the emergency.

In times of crisis, families and communities seek to reconnect and ensure each other's safety. Effective communication enables individuals to check on the well-being of loved ones, share updates on their own situation, and coordinate mutual assistance within neighbourhoods.

Suggested Strategies Maintaining Communication and Power During Outages:

Planning:

Before an emergency occurs, develop a comprehensive communication plan. Identify alternative communication methods that do not rely on electricity.  Use other power sources to best advantage.  Solar charged batteries to power radios and other small devices. Use of generators in communication hubs and other important facilities. A ready supply of re-chargeable batteries. Information boards for roadside use and in strategic locations.

Communication Hubs:

Designate locations within communities as communication hubs. These hubs can serve as information dissemination points, equipped with battery-operated radios, bulletin boards, and trained personnel. This creates a focal point for gathering and sharing critical updates.

Other Strategies

Embrace low-tech solutions such as two-way radios, or even handwritten messages. These tools can bridge communication gaps when high-tech devices are rendered useless due to power outages.

Distributing printed emergency contact lists ensures information is readily available.

Train community volunteers. Conduct regular training sessions that focus on communication protocols. Ensure volunteers are familiar with alternative communication methods and practice using them. This not only builds confidence but also streamlines the communication process during actual emergencies. Establish a network of community leaders who can disseminate information, provide updates, and act as liaisons between the affected population and emergency response teams.

Maintain information on Social Media and Messaging Apps, have it posted from a non-affected area ensuring any that can use this information source are able to obtain the latest updates. Encourage the dissemination of information through these channels, keeping in mind the need for power conservation.

Establish toll-free emergency hotlines that operate independently of the power grid. These hotlines can serve as a centralized point for individuals to seek information, report emergencies, and receive guidance during power outages. Be aware of the increasing number of homes with no landline and those of an internet dependent VOIP system connection. 

Explore the implementation of resilient communication infrastructure, such as solar-powered cell towers and backup generators for critical communication hubs. This investment can ensure that essential communication channels remain operational even when the primary power source is compromised.

Investigate the ability of homes with solar assisted and/or wind assisted systems to be able to utilise that power when available by a simple switch system. For homes with solar assistance they could at least draw down the power generated from their own home and maintain some communications, keep freezers and fridges sufficiently powered to save food, and ability to have hot water for those with ever increasing electrically heated water services.

Maintaining good communication during emergencies when power is cut is not only crucial but also achievable with strategic planning and community engagement. The ability to convey information swiftly and reliably becomes a beacon of hope in the darkness, guiding communities through challenges and facilitating a coordinated response. By embracing diverse communication methods and fostering preparedness, societies can fortify their resilience and navigate emergencies with greater efficacy, ensuring that the light of information continues to shine even when the power is out. 

The question remains after all the experiences that East Gippsland has endured over the last 20 years why are we still seemingly unable to maintain simple communications at these times?