Preparing Your Home for Emergencies with Accessible Technology
Emergencies can happen with little warning. Wildfires, earthquakes, severe storms, power outages, and other unexpected events can quickly disrupt everyday life. During these situations, receiving timely alerts and maintaining communication can make all the difference.
California Connect offers a variety of accessible telecommunications devices designed to help eligible Californians prepare for emergencies, receive important alerts, and communicate with confidence before, during, and after an emergency.
Why Emergency Preparedness Matters
Emergency preparedness begins long before an emergency occurs. Having accessible communication technology in place can help you:
- Receive emergency notifications quickly.
- Stay informed about severe weather and local hazards.
- Recognize important household alerts.
- Maintain communication during power outages.
- Increase independence and peace of mind.
Using multiple forms of accessible alerts such as flashing lights, amplified sound, vibration, voice announcements, and portable backup power creates additional layers of protection for you and your household.
Accessible Technology That Can Help
California Connect offers several devices designed to improve emergency preparedness and communication.
1. Midland WR120 NOAA Weather Alert Radio
The Midland WR120 NOAA Weather Alert Radio continuously monitors National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio broadcasts and automatically alerts users when severe weather watches, warnings, or local emergencies are issued.
Features include:
- Automatic NOAA emergency alerts
- Loud warning alarm
- Local weather information
- Battery backup during power outages
Receiving weather alerts directly from NOAA can provide valuable time to prepare before severe weather arrives.
2. HomeAware Security Alert
The HomeAware Security Alert helps ensure important household events are never missed by converting everyday sounds into accessible alerts.
The system can notify users of:
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Doorbells
- Telephone calls
- Baby crying
- Other household sounds
Alerts can be delivered through bright flashing lights, vibration, and audible notifications, providing multiple ways to stay informed.
3. Sonic Alert HomeAware Blink
The Sonic Alert HomeAware Blink works with compatible HomeAware transmitters to provide highly visible flashing light notifications throughout the home.
Its compact design allows it to be placed where visual alerts are needed most, helping users recognize important household events quickly and easily.
4. SquareGlow Smart Home Kit
The SquareGlow Smart Home Kit uses illuminated light panels to provide clear visual notifications for household events.
The system can alert users to events such as:
- Doorbell activity
- Telephone calls
- Household notifications
- Other connected alerts
Distinct light colors and patterns make it easy to identify different notifications at a glance.
5. Krown LookOut KNS 360
The Krown LookOut KNS 360 is an all-in-one notification system designed to monitor several important household sounds.
It can provide accessible alerts for:
- Doorbells
- Telephone calls
- Smoke alarms
- Carbon monoxide alarms
- Alarm clocks
Depending on the connected accessories, alerts may include flashing lights, vibrations, or amplified sound.
6. Mophie Powerstation® Pro
Power outages often occur during emergencies, making backup power an important part of every emergency preparedness plan.
The Mophie Powerstation® Pro is a portable battery that helps keep essential communication devices charged, including:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Other compatible USB-powered devices
Maintaining battery power allows users to continue making calls, receiving emergency alerts, and accessing accessibility features when electricity is unavailable.
Creating Multiple Layers of Protection
No single device can prepare you for every emergency. Combining accessible technologies creates a more reliable emergency communication system.
For example:
- A Midland WR120 provides early weather alerts.
- A HomeAware Security Alert, HomeAware Blink, SquareGlow Smart Home Kit, or Krown LookOut KNS 360 helps ensure important household alarms and notifications are accessible.
- A Mophie Powerstation® Pro keeps communication devices powered if the electrical grid goes down.
Together, these devices help ensure you remain informed, connected, and prepared during emergencies.
Simple Ways to Prepare Today
Emergency preparedness doesn't have to be complicated. Consider taking these simple steps:
- Test emergency alert devices regularly.
- Replace or recharge batteries as recommended.
- Keep portable power banks fully charged.
- Review emergency communication plans with family members or caregivers.
- Practice responding to emergency alerts before an actual emergency occurs.
Preparing ahead of time can reduce stress and improve safety when emergencies happen.
About California Connect
California Connect is a CPUC-funded assistive technology program that provides free communication devices and training to eligible Californians with speech, hearing, vision, or mobility disabilities. Learn more and apply at caconnect.org.
