Why you should have one: Following a disaster, if you cannot call or drive home, how will you know if your loved ones are safe? The local telephone lines will be overwhelmed with 9-1-1 calls and there may be widespread damage to roads, overpasses and bridges.
It's Easy! Choose a friend or family member who lives at least 100 miles away. Everyone in the family calls this person to report in and to find out how others are doing. Everyone keeps the numbers in their wallet, purse or backpack to help them remember who to call.
Following disasters: Call your out-of-area contact person. Only call 9-1-1 if it is a life-threatening emergency.
Text messaging--A New Option: Text messaging on your cell phone is a viable alternative to calling an out-of-area contact. This system is very robust during times of disaster. Text your loved ones to let them know where and how you are. Keep your message brief.
From Washington State Emergency Management Division
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