⚠ ELEVATED THREAT LEVEL

When the Screens Go Dark

The internet, mobile networks, and landlines all depend on electricity. When the grid falls, so does your ability to call for help, coordinate with family, or know what's happening beyond your front door. In an asymmetric war scenario, communications infrastructure is a primary target. Here's how to stay connected when the networks die.

What Will Fail

  • 1. Mobile phone masts have 2-4 hours of backup battery
  • 2. Fibre exchanges have backup generators — for a few days
  • 3. Satellite phones are expensive and monitored
  • 4. Internet infrastructure is a prime cyber target
  • 5. Radio becomes the only reliable medium

Your Comms Strategy

  • Short range (1-5 mi): PMR446 walkie-talkies (no license needed)
  • Medium range (5-20 mi): Ham radio (license required — get it now)
  • Long range (global): Shortwave radio for receiving information
  • Information: Emergency broadcast radio (battery/crank powered)
  • Signals: Whistles, signal mirrors, flags for visual comms

Essential Comms Gear

Baofeng UV-5R Dual Band Ham Radio

The prepper's go-to handheld radio. Dual-band VHF/UHF, 4-5W output, 128 channels, built-in flashlight and FM radio. When the mobile network collapses and the internet dies, this is how you communicate.

£27.99

A Baofeng costs £30. Your family's safety is priceless.

Get your ham radio license (Foundation level) — it takes one weekend. Then buy the gear.

Baofeng UV-5R — £29.99