The biggest threat that the nation’s telecommunications companies are grappling with ahead of summer’s disaster season isn’t the possibility of the triple-0 system going down — it’s power outages that could bring down the entire phone and internet system, including emergency calls.
While Optus, Telstra, and TPG (which owns Vodafone) are under political scrutiny over the state of the triple-0 system, they are also preparing for the broader possibility of natural disasters impacting services. Measures such as portable mobile phone towers, backup batteries and generators, and even the use of drones to maintain phone services at evacuation centres are being considered.
Telcos are recommending that people ensure their phones, devices, and backup batteries are fully charged if a natural disaster is looming. It’s also advised that individuals write down key phone numbers for family members and emergency services, so they don’t have to rely solely on accessing them via a phone that might run out of battery.
The major telcos regularly coordinate with State and Territory disaster-ready groups, along with police, emergency services, local councils, charities, and power companies to plan and respond effectively. In a few weeks, they will join the National Emergency Management Agency for a simulation drill designed to stress test the triple-0 system and their disaster preparedness plans.
A TPG-Telecom spokesman told The West, “While our networks are built for resilience, power outages and extreme conditions can impact connectivity. That’s why we encourage customers to keep devices charged, back up important data, and stay tuned to local emergency updates.”
When a natural disaster is forecast, the companies begin moving critical equipment into place to help maintain mobile coverage. An Optus spokesperson explained, “This includes sending portable generators to keep mobile sites operational during power outages — one of the most common challenges during emergencies — as well as specialised equipment to restore mobile connectivity, often deployed to evacuation centres.”
“Optus prioritises disaster preparedness and takes a proactive and locally informed approach to emergency management, particularly during the emergency season,” the spokesperson added.
Meanwhile, Telstra has upgraded more than 1,000 payphones in at-risk locations over the past year to provide free Wi-Fi and extended battery backup. The company has also enhanced other technologies and facilities to keep them running longer, even during power outages.
These efforts highlight the telecommunications industry’s commitment to maintaining communication services during emergencies and ensuring the safety and connectivity of the community throughout the disaster season.
https://thewest.com.au/politics/federal-politics/telecommunications-companies-stock-up-on-batteries-to-prepare-for-disaster-season-c-20277601
