CERA's Neighborhood Radio Watch program is your backup plan when cell and internet services are disrupted due to service provider infrastructure failures, power outages, or disasters like the Camp Fire and Lahaina Fire.

Statistics paint a sobering picture:

• 97% of Americans own a cell phone, and nine-in-ten own smartphones. (Pew Research Center)
• Nearly 80% of households have internet access, but power outages or infrastructure failures can leave them offline. (National Telecommunications and Information Administration)
• Nearly 30% of young adults and low-income individuals rely solely on cellular data for internet access. (Technical.ly)

In an era dominated by cell phones and the internet, it's crucial to have a backup plan for when they fail so you can call for help, access vital information, and stay connected with loved ones to know that they are safe.

CERA's Neighborhood Radio Watch program will give you that peace of mind and help you stay connected when the grid goes down. We teach El Dorado County communities on how to use two-way radios and how to communicate on these radios during disasters, such as wildfires or weather-related events like winter snowstorms.

Two-way radios are not a replacement for cell phones or internet, but rather a valuable addition to your communication toolkit. Two-way radios offer several advantages:

1. Reliability: Unlike cell phones, which rely on complex networks of towers and satellites, radios operate on simple radio frequencies. This means they can function even in remote areas or when infrastructure is damaged.
2. Instantaneous Communication: With two-way radios, communication is immediate and direct. There's no need to dial phone numbers or wait for connections to be established, making them ideal for fast-paced or emergency situations.
3. Group Communication: Two-way radios facilitate group communication, allowing multiple users to listen and talk. This feature is invaluable for sharing information during emergencies.
4. No Subscription Required: Cell phones and internet access require a subscription to a service provider. Two-way radios operate on open radio frequencies and do not incur ongoing costs. Once a radio is purchased, they can be used indefinitely without additional fees.
5. Durability: Many two-way radios are designed to withstand harsh conditions, including water, dust, and impact. This makes them well-suited for outdoor activities, construction sites, and emergency response situations.

Join one of CERA's local Neighborhood Radio Watch group for free and learn more about using two-way radios so you can start preparing for the next emergency before it happens.