4.2. Logistics and supplies
4.2.3. Telecommunications 
Real-time communications are needed to ensure the safety of staff, the exchange of information, coordination of activities, and the sending and receipt of instructions.
Therefore, a telecommunications network should be established that links the various operating sites, covering, for example:
- The health sector Emergency Operations Committee or other established coordination center.
- Personnel working in on-site missions.
- Logistical units (handling coordination, storage, and transportation).
Since telecommunications tasks are highly specialized, it is important that the coordination of the telecommunications network be handled by a person with sufficient training who can both ensure that the network functions reliably and advise team members who need instructions to use various devices. Structuring an efficient network requires selecting appropriate systems and equipment; some technical aspects of communication during disaster relief operations must be taken into account.
Availability of services in the emergency area: Since not all emergencies destroy or interrupt telecommunications services, care should be taken to determine what type of equipment will be necessary, thus avoiding installation of complicated communications systems when a simple cell phone is sufficient.
Need and adaptability: Analyze the type of operation being carried out in order to determine what communication needs must be addressed. The system and equipment that is chosen must be adapted to the characteristics of the region and the work context.
Compatibility between new equipment and other institutional equipment that will be used on site is important, as is the ability to operate on existing frequencies, since otherwise integrated communications cannot be guaranteed. Insofar as possible, it is also important that equipment be compatible with the systems used by other agencies that are collaborating closely in the emergency situation.
Sustainability, especially economic sustainability, is important, since some equipment has very high operating and maintenance costs or requires very costly accessories. When new equipment is procured, check for warrantees, technical service, and the availability of replacement devices or parts.
Usefulness must be considered. Does the apparatus truly meet a real need, or is it a ‘toy’?
User-friendliness is important. Brief training should suffice to understand the operation and basic use of a device.
Telecommunications are subject to laws, , procedures, and regulations, both national and international, and compliance with these must be confirmed when deciding on radio frequencies. Emergency telecommunications in particular have specific characteristics that must be considered. Whatever communications system or combination of systems is used, measures and procedures for efficient use should be established and followed. This applies to both the pieces of equipment involved and the network. The International Telecommunications Union publication on the use of information and communications technologies for disaster management is a useful reference tool.
Go to: Response by technical areas