Family Communication Plan (PACE)
The PACE plan (Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency) is a military communication planning methodology worth adapting for civilian needs.
P - Primary
Daily communication means: mobile phones, internet messengers (Signal, WhatsApp). They work as long as there is power and infrastructure.
A - Alternate
Other common methods: landlines, email, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi mesh messengers (Bridgefy, Briar) in close range.
C - Contingency
Independent radio systems: PMR radios, CB Radio. Allow for local communication without operator infrastructure.
E - Emergency
Physical and last-resort methods: Agreed meeting points, leaving messages in "dead drops", visual/audio signaling.
ICE Card (In Case of Emergency)
Every family member should carry a physical, laminated card with phone numbers of loved ones and a contact number for an out-of-area person (e.g., an aunt in another state) who can serve as a relay point.
EXAMPLE CARD:
ICE / EMERGENCY CARD
Name: John Doe
Blood type: A Rh+
Allergies: Penicillin
Contact 1 (Wife): 500-000-000
Contact 2 (Brother): 600-000-000
ICE Contact (Out of area): 700-000-000 (Aunt in another city)
Rally Points
Establish three meeting places: 1. Near home (e.g., a specific tree, bench). 2. In the neighborhood (e.g., school, church). 3. Out of town (e.g., grandparents' house).