TEXTING, LANDLINES BEST IN DISASTERS

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — In a large storm, many people are going to be relying on smartphones or other technology for updates. But that technology brings a new set of concerns and precautions that need to be considered.

In the past, experts encouraged everyone to buy generators, which is still a viable tip.

The National Weather Service’s Miami warning coordination meteorologist Robert Molleda offers the following tips for new technology.

Buy a large rechargeable battery for cellphones or other handheld devices. The battery can hold multiple charges and give a phone some juice even if the power is out.

Buy an uninterruptible power supply. These devices offer guaranteed power and surge protection for wireless networks.

Back up files using an online service, external hard drive or cloud service. If the storm could cause computers to crash, these methods will ensure that the files can be restored.

Download apps to keep

track of the storm. These services can provide up-to-the-minute updates about what’s happening, as well as any new watches and warnings.

› Conserve battery power on smartphones. Even with ways to charge phones, battery life should be conserved as much as possible. Close apps when not in use; dim the screen; turn off Wi-Fi, bluetooth and 4G when it’s not needed, and use the phone only when you need it.

› Have a landline phone. It may be a throwback to the dinosaur ages, but a landline phone could be helpful if cellphone service is knocked out.

ADDITIONAL CELLPHONE TIPS FROM AT&T:

› Forward calls from your home number to your wireless number. In the event of an evacuation, this would make sure you don’t miss important calls.

› Take advantage of location-based maps in seeking evacuation routes and avoiding traffic congestion.

› Use your phone’s camera to document damages. You can send to most insurance companies directly from the phone.

› Make calls only in emergencies. Networks will be taxed during a storm.

In addition, according to the SANS Institute’s Internet Storm Center, it’s advisable to use a text message initially after a storm. Many cellphone networks can deal with SMS messages more readily than voice.

Matt Morgan writes for The Palm Beach Post. Staff writer Jonathan Tully contributed to this report.