Using Technology to Prepare For and Stay Safe During a Storm
Incidents of severe weather have increased in recent years. According to Climate Central, over the last 20 years weather-related events accounted for more than 80 percent of power outages in the U.S.* No matter where you live, it is likely your ability to stay connected has been impacted by storms, fires or other severe weather events that have caused power outages.
As the weather starts to change, here are some ways you can use technology to prepare for and stay informed during a weather-related event in your area:
Charge Batteries: We have become very reliant on technologies that require power, like mobile devices, tablets, and laptops. Luckily, today there are back-up power sources available that can help keep these devices up and running even if the power is out. If you don’t have one already, look into a back-up battery or solar charger for your mobile device and essential electronics. You can also purchase a car adaptor that allows you to quickly and easily recharge devices in your car.
Utilize Apps and Digital Tools: It can be helpful to use technology and digital tools now – before a potential crisis – so that you can move quickly and safely if trouble comes. Keep records of where important documents are in your home, keep photos or scans on your phone, save helpful links you may need if a bad storm hits like your local radio station or community website, and save/identify your emergency contacts in your mobile device. Download useful mobile apps like FEMA, which provides updates on local weather. You may also want to download apps from your mobile phone or Internet provider. Xfinity customers can download the Xfinity app here.
Prepare Back-Up Connections: Being connected to news and your loved ones during a local crisis, like a weather event, has never been more important. If your internet provider offers a back-up connectivity option, make sure your device is charged and has a strong cellular connection in your home. Xfinity just launched its Storm Ready WiFi device that can provide 4 hours of connectivity in the event the power goes out. The average power outage lasts 2 hours, so this provides twice that amount of time to stay connected and online. That kind of head start can prove extremely valuable.
Xfinity’s Storm-Ready WiFi solution is equipped with cellular back-up enabling customers to work and stream without interruption. The device also doubles as a WiFi extender and delivers strong WiFi signal to hard-to-reach corners of the home.
Quick, Easy Set Up with Auto Failover
Getting started with Storm-Ready WiFi is as simple as plugging it in and following the activation flow in the Xfinity app. No activation fees are required. The device simply integrates with customers’ existing Xfinity Gateway and WiFi network, as well as the Xfinity app, without any need to switch networks in-home. Any time the Storm-Ready WiFi transitions to cellular, customers will receive a notification and their devices will automatically maintain connectivity.
The Xfinity 10G Network that powers Storm-Ready WiFi provides increased speed, capacity, reliability, and lower latency. Storm-Ready WiFi is just the beginning of the next-generation Internet experience Comcast will pioneer, with roll outs of multi-gig speeds to markets across the country planned for later this year.
Track Your Most Treasured Items: Storms can unexpectedly gain strength as they move across water or land. If you’re worried about potentially becoming separated from your most treasured personal items – your daughter’s favorite stuffed animal, a family heirloom – or even your pet – you can place a digital tracker like a Tile or Apple Air Tag on your pet’s collar or your personal item so you can monitor its location and ensure you stay close.
*https://www.climatecentral.org/climate-matters/surging-weather-related-power-outages
