The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management (YCOEM) today announced its observance of April as Emergency Communications Month, a national initiative that highlights the critical role reliable communication plays before, during, and after emergencies and disasters. This year’s campaign encourages Yavapai County residents, families, and businesses to take proactive steps to develop and strengthen their personal emergency communication plans.
When emergencies strike — from wildfires and flash floods to prolonged power outages — conventional communication systems can quickly become overloaded or unavailable. A clear, practiced communication plan can mean the difference between panic and coordinated action for every member of your household.
April also marks National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week (NPSTW), observed the second full week of April, which honors the dedicated 911 dispatchers and emergency communications professionals who serve as the vital first link in every emergency response. Yavapai County joins communities across the nation in recognizing the tireless service of our local telecommunicators, whose skill, composure, and swift action save lives every day.
Throughout the month of April, YCOEM will share preparedness tips and resources via its official website and social media channels, and will coordinate with local first responders, amateur radio operators, and community partners to promote communications resilience across the region.
What Yavapai County Residents Should Do This Month
- Create a Family Communication Plan. Identify an out-of-area contact, establish a meeting location, and make sure every household member knows what to do if separated during an emergency.
- Sign up for Emergency Alerts. Residents can register for emergency notifications through their local alert system to receive real-time warnings for their area by visiting smart911.com.
- Program Important Numbers. Store emergency contacts in your phone and write them down in case your device is lost or inoperable.
- Invest in a NOAA Weather Radio. Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA radios provide alerts even when cell towers and internet are down.
- Consider Amateur (Ham) Radio. Amateur radio operators play a vital role in emergency communications. Contact your local amateur radio club to learn more about getting licensed.
- Practice Your Plan. Conduct a family drill at least once a year so everyone knows the plan and can execute it under stress.
Yavapai County encompasses nearly 8,100 square miles of diverse terrain, including mountain communities, rural ranches, and desert towns. This geographic diversity makes reliable communication planning especially vital, as certain areas may experience limited cell service and are particularly vulnerable during high-impact weather events and wildfires.
YCOEM works year-round alongside local, state, and federal partners to ensure coordinated response capabilities throughout the county. For more information on emergency preparedness resources available to Yavapai County residents, visit www.yavapaiready.gov or follow YCOEM on social media.
