Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
If you are in immediate danger, try calling 911 even when your phone says “No service.” A wireless phone may connect through another available network for an emergency call. Give your location first, stay on the line, and call again if the call drops. If voice calling will not connect but the phone still has any messaging or data connection, send a short emergency text. Then use battery-powered broadcast sources, such as NOAA Weather Radio or local radio, for official warnings. Do not enter floodwater, approach downed power lines, or leave a safe shelter just to hunt for a signal.
First, decide whether this is an emergency
A missing carrier signal is inconvenient, but a storm can create life-threatening conditions quickly. If someone is injured, trapped, in immediate danger, or needs fire, police, or medical help, treat the situation as an emergency and attempt 911 before troubleshooting the phone.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Call 911 even when the carrier indicator says “No service”
In the United States, a phone may be able to use another reachable wireless network for a 911 call even when its own carrier has no service. A wireless phone without an active service plan may also call 911. However, the call center may not receive the phone’s location, and a 911 center may be unable to call back if the call disconnects from an uninitialized phone.
- Dial 911 and wait for the call attempt to complete.
- When someone answers, state your exact location first: street address, apartment or room, nearby intersection, landmark, shelter name, or mile marker.
- Briefly describe the danger, injuries, number of people involved, and any access problem responders should know about.
- Stay on the line unless the dispatcher tells you to disconnect.
- If the call drops, try 911 again. Do not assume the center can return the call.
Keep the phone still and listen for the dispatcher. Avoid repeatedly redialing when there is no emergency; each attempt consumes battery that may be needed later.
#1 Best Overall
- NOAA Weather Scan & Alert - This emergency weather alert radio features S.A.M.E localized programming and alert you to over 60 kinds of weather hazards and emergencies. NOAA Weather Scan will automatically alert you of events.
- S.A.M.E Localized Programming - The Specific Area Message Encoding (S.A.M.E.) allows the user to enter a code that is specific to your country, state, county and in some cases partial county.
- Notification Settings - Program your radio to receive weather alerts from up to 25 different counties and be alerted only when those specific counties are threatened. Color-coded alert indicators show the alert type and its severity.
- Additional Features - SAME localized programming, continuous backlighting option which keeps the LCD on, 25 programmable counties, color-coded alert indicators, alert override automatically switches to warn of impending danger.
- Experience a comprehensive range of radios from Midland, designed to keep you connected and informed. Our radios offer an array of features, including reliable real-time weather alerts, and robust two-way communication capabilities.
What to do if the call will not connect
Move only within a safe area. A few feet inside a building, near a window, or outside a sheltered doorway can change radio conditions, but do not climb, drive, enter floodwater, or approach damaged utility equipment for a better signal. Try 911 again after a short pause, especially if the network is congested.
If voice calls fail but the phone still connects
Send a concise message to a trusted contact
During congestion, a short text may get through when a voice call does not. Use the smallest message that gives another person enough information to act:
LOCATION: [address or landmark]. DANGER: [what is happening]. PEOPLE: [number and injuries]. NEED: [help requested]. NEXT: [where I will shelter or move, if safe].Include your location, the number of people with you, immediate danger, and your intended next step. Send it to a family member, neighbor, or out-of-area contact who can relay information to authorities. Do not keep sending the same message; repeated attempts drain the battery and can add congestion.
Rank #2
- [7400mWh (2000mAh) POWER BANK WILL KEEP DEVICES POWERED] The FosPower FOSPWB-2376 emergency radio incorporates a 7400mWh (2000mAh) power bank capable of providing emergency power to any small tablet or phone.
- [3 POWER SOURCES POWER WHEN YOU NEED IT] Use the emergency weather radio's 3 power sources when you need a boost of power or need to recharge the radio. The radio's crank lever and solar panel are both capable of regenerating enough power to keep the radio, lights, and SOS alarm ready to go when you need it most. AAA Batteries ensure you have power when not able to regenerate power.
- [2 LIGHT SOURCES ALWAYS POWERED] The emergency crank radio can also provide light. The 4 LED reading light and 1W flashlight provides enough output to keep you and your loved ones out of the dark in an emergency situation.
- [NOAA EMERGENCY WEATHER BROADCAST ACCESS] The radio will dependably receive up to the second emergency weather forecasts and emergency news broadcasts from NOAA and AM/FM stations.
- [LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY] Includes a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Please visit FosPower's website for more information.
Text-to-911 is local, not nationwide
Some U.S. 911 centers accept text messages, but availability varies by locality and can change. Call if you can; text if calling is not possible. If your area does not support text-to-911, the mobile provider may return a delivery-failure response. Silence is not confirmation that dispatch received the message, so do not treat an unanswered text as proof that help is coming. If a text reaches a dispatcher, keep the exchange brief and answer questions about location and danger.
Get storm warnings without cellular service
Why Wireless Emergency Alerts may disappear
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are sent by authorized government agencies through mobile carriers. A compatible phone must be connected to a functioning cell tower to receive them. WEA can be useful when the network is operating, but it is not an independent backup when towers are damaged, offline, or unreachable.
Use NOAA Weather Radio and local broadcasts
NOAA Weather Radio All-Hazards broadcasts National Weather Service warnings and other hazard information. Most receivers can sound an alert tone automatically for hazardous-weather watches or warnings. A battery-powered or hand-crank receiver can continue working during a power outage and does not depend on a cell tower.
Rank #3
- NOAA Weather Scan + Alert: NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 10 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area. NOAA Weather Radio will also be used to broadcast AMBER alerts for missing children.
- S.A.M.E Programming: Improve your emergency preparedness with equipped with digital S.A.M.E. technology, weather radio seamlessly connects to your county's warning system, providing you with instant weather updates from the National Weather Service. Features a convenient USB output, allowing you to charge your devices directly from the radio itself. Program up to 25 counties and choose from 80 different emergency alerts, this advanced weather radio from Midland ensures that you stay informed.
- Warning System: Experience customizable alert options with the WR400 Warning System. You have the flexibility to choose how you want to be alerted, whether it's through an 85 dB siren alarm, a voice alert, or a visual LED flasher. 80 different emergency alerts to keep you informed about various critical situations. Emergency power backup functionality. By using four "AA" batteries (not included), ensure that the radio continues to operate during power outages or when you're using it outdoors.
- Features: Experience the convenience of an Alarm Clock Radio with the Midland WR400. Features a built-in clock with an alarm and a snooze button, along with an AM/FM radio. Wake up to your choice of local weather updates, AM/FM radio stations, or a traditional buzzing alarm. Automatically switches from AM/FM mode to relevant all-hazard alerts, and you'll receive important emergency alerts without having to manually switch modes. Stay informed and start your day off right.
- Alarm Clock: The built-in clock features an alarm with a snooze button and a AM/FM Radio. Wake up to local weather, AM/FM, or buzz. It automatically switches from AM/FM to pertinent all-hazard alerts.
Local AM/FM radio and television are additional sources when you have power or batteries. Follow instructions from local emergency management, law enforcement, fire officials, and shelter staff. Do not leave a safe shelter merely to verify a rumor or search for a stronger signal.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
| Information source | What it requires | When it helps | Important limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| WEA on a phone | Compatible phone and a working cellular connection | Automatic government alerts while a tower can deliver them | Not dependable if cellular infrastructure is unavailable |
| NOAA Weather Radio | Receiver power and local reception | Official weather warnings during cell or internet outages | Does not receive WEA; coverage varies by location |
| AM/FM radio | Battery or electrical power and a receivable station | Local instructions, shelter information, and updates | May not carry every warning or remain on the air |
| Television | Electrical power or a charged portable setup | Visual local coverage when stations and power operate | Unavailable during some outages |
Use satellite emergency functions only when your phone supports them
Some newer phones can send emergency information by satellite, but the feature is not universal. Availability depends on the exact model, operating-system version, country or region, and current service conditions. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for your phone before a storm; do not assume that every iPhone or Android phone has the capability.
Supported iPhone emergency satellite service
Apple says an iPhone may try to route an emergency call through another network when its carrier network is unavailable. On supported iPhone models and in supported regions, an emergency satellite function can help when ordinary connections cannot. The phone’s on-screen guidance directs you toward a satellite, and a clear view of the sky is required. Try calling emergency services first. If a satellite session reaches a responder, do not end it before explaining the situation.
Rank #4
- PRETTY PORTABLE - The noaa radio is as portable as an iPhone, its compact size makes it easy to store in your emergency kit and backpack without taking up much space, and you can easily hold it with just one hand. Comes with a handy lanyard, it's convenient for you to listen.Dimensions: 4.7 x 2.8 x 1.2in, Weight: 0.24lb (exclude battery).
- A ESSENTIAL TO EMERGENCY KIT - This battery radio emergency is about weather news. Weather Band: 162.40-162.55kHz (include 7 NOAA),FM: 87-108 MHz, AM:520-1710 kHz Covering 7 NOAA weather bands, it delivers timely updates on upcoming severe weather conditions like storms, hurricanes and tornadoes, even when power fails or there is no internet available. So you'll get valuable time to stay prepared for emergencies. Note: Not support automatic notification for NOAA alerts.
- BATTERY POWERED RADIO - Runs on just 2 AA batteries, this noaa emergency weather radio ensures continuous operation during power outages, as long as you keep some spare AA batteries at home. When you’re out and about, toss some AA batteries in your bag, and save the hassle of searching for a power outlet. It’s your reliable companion for staying informed and safe.
- SIMPLE OPERATION - It’s a storm radio. Only 3 controls - one for power and volume, one for tuning and one for band selection - tuning in to your favorite station is a breeze. No headaches from the confusing digital screen and buttons; just get relaxed with this weather radio battery powered.
- 2 PLAYBACK MODES - This portable weather radio is equipped with an internal magnetic speaker with 2 sound holes in the front and back, providing a crisp, balanced and stereo sound experience. Plus, if you're in the mood for a little 'me time', simply plug in your headphones for undisturbed enjoyment of music, news, or talk shows.
Pixel Satellite SOS
Google’s Pixel support documentation describes Satellite SOS for supported devices and locations. The exact start procedure and availability depend on the device and region. Follow the prompts shown on the phone and keep an unobstructed view of the sky when instructed. A satellite emergency feature is not the same as ordinary satellite calling or general satellite messaging; it may be limited to emergency use.
Before relying on satellite help
- Identify the exact phone model and software version.
- Confirm that the emergency satellite feature is offered where you live and where you expect to travel.
- Read the start procedure while you still have normal connectivity.
- Learn where the phone expects you to stand and how it indicates satellite alignment.
- Keep the phone charged and remove anything that blocks the required view of the sky.
Preserve the battery while service is unavailable
A power bank or charger can keep a phone powered, but it cannot repair a cell tower, carrier network, or internet connection. Treat remaining battery as an emergency resource.
- Turn on the phone’s low-power or battery-saver mode.
- Dim the screen and shorten the screen timeout.
- Close unnecessary apps and stop video, gaming, and background synchronization.
- Use text instead of repeated voice calls when a connection remains.
- Keep the phone available for 911 attempts, official alerts, and essential messages.
- Recharge from a power bank, vehicle adapter, or other safe source when available.
Do not switch the phone off if you are waiting for an urgent call or alert unless battery preservation is more important than immediate reachability. If you must conserve aggressively, check the phone periodically rather than repeatedly searching for service.
Best Value
- AUTOMATIC NOAA WEATHER ALERT RADIO - This weather alert radio may save your life! Especially important at night while you are sleeping! It auto-scans for emergency and weather alerts when you turn the device on or in standby mode，and alert you if any emergency warning is issued. No need to listen to the weather broadcast all day and night. Getting an NOAA alert about impending weather threats gives you a heads-up that bad weather is on the way, so you can prepare or even evacuate if necessary.
- LARGE HD LCD DISPLAY - A must weather radio with a large HD LCD display screen and digital tuning, you can see the battery level and current tuning frequency, which can provide reliable AM/FM/SW/WB reception, and accurately pick your favorite channel. Press on "Tune+" or "Tune-" to auto-scan and easily find your favorite show. Long press on the "Dimmer" button to turn off the backlit LCD screen and enter the power-saving mode.
- 6-WAY CHARGING OPTIONS - An NOAA Weather radio with multiple charging backup options is the ideal choice. 6-way charging options including a built-in rechargable backup battery, an AC adapter, DC 5V USB input,hand-crank, solar panel, and 3 AAA batteries(not included in packing), which is more powerful and reliable, which can provide instant, automatic, around-the-clock messages regarding weather alerts.
- EMERGENCY RADIO & SOS ALARM - When hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, flooding, or other emergencies may occur, an NOAA alert radio can provide life-saving information. A built-in super-bright 3W flashlight and 2.5W reading lamp are critical if the power outage. It also includes a USB connector used to charge your USB-enabled smart devices for communication. Simply press the SOS button that activated a loud alert partnered with an eye-catching flashing red light for emergency assistance.
- PORTABLE RADIO & HEADPHONE JACK - This portable radio is small, light, and IPX3 water-resistant, only 1.2LB, measures: 6.8×3.7×2.9 inches, which is easier to carry with you anywhere. Includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack, allowing you to listen to the weather broadcast at night without disturbing your travel buddies. Weather alerts are beneficial during outdoor adventures like fishing, camping, and hiking, can keep you well-prepared for severe weather and stay safe.
Safety comes before finding a signal
Storm damage can remain dangerous after rain and wind ease. NOAA warns that nearly half of hurricane fatalities occur after the storm. Floodwater can hide washed-out roads, contamination, and electrical hazards; NOAA says 12 inches of moving water can float a car.
- Never walk or drive through moving or standing floodwater.
- Stay away from downed power lines, damaged poles, and flooded electrical equipment.
- Follow evacuation orders and shelter directions even if your phone cannot confirm them.
- Do not leave a secure shelter to chase a signal or investigate an unverified report.
- Check on neighbors only when doing so does not expose you to those hazards.
Responders may be delayed because roads, communications systems, and emergency facilities are affected at the same time. Give dispatchers the clearest location you can and remain where you are safest unless officials direct you to move.
Prepare before the next storm
Preparation gives you options when towers, electricity, and internet access fail together. NOAA recommends keeping the phone charged, carrying chargers and a written communications plan in a go-bag, and preparing supplies for at least three days. Ready.gov recommends alternative charging methods for outages.
Recommended Free Tools
Create a paper communications plan
- Write down family, neighbor, medical, workplace, and out-of-area contact numbers.
- Record home addresses, meeting points, shelter locations, evacuation routes, and local emergency numbers.
- Choose one out-of-area contact who can relay updates if people in the affected area cannot reach one another.
- Agree on when each person will check in and what to do if the primary meeting place is unsafe.
Make the phone useful offline
- Download local maps and official emergency information for offline access where the apps allow it.
- Enable emergency alerts and review the phone’s emergency SOS instructions.
- Learn the satellite emergency procedure for the exact device before severe weather arrives.
- Keep the phone, spare batteries, charging cables, and power bank together so they can be taken quickly.
Add an independent information source
Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio and test its alert settings before storm season. Check that it receives the NOAA station serving your area. A radio is complementary to a phone: it can provide official broadcasts when cellular and internet connections are down, but it does not restore phone service and it does not receive WEA.
Choosing a radio and power bank for outages
Compare preparedness equipment by the failure you are trying to cover. A radio addresses loss of information; a power bank addresses loss of electrical charging. Neither creates a cellular connection.
Quick Recap
| Item | Specifications to compare | Questions to ask before a storm |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency radio | NOAA reception, alert-tone behavior, AM/FM reception, battery operation, hand-crank or solar charging, durability, ease of use | Does it receive the local NOAA broadcast? Can someone operate it in darkness or under stress? Are batteries fresh and the alert tone enabled? |
| Phone power bank | Capacity, connector compatibility, recharge method, size, and ability to remain safely charged | Does its connector fit the phone? Can it be recharged without grid power? Is it stored charged and protected from heat or water? |
A quick decision checklist
| Situation | Best next action |
|---|---|
| Immediate danger or injury | Call 911, state location first, stay on the line, and call again if disconnected. |
| Voice call fails but messaging works | Send a concise location-and-danger text to a trusted contact; use text-to-911 only where supported. |
| No cellular connection but you have a radio | Monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local AM/FM broadcasts for official instructions. |
| Supported satellite emergency feature appears | Follow the phone’s prompts, obtain a clear sky view, and verify model and regional eligibility. |
| Signal hunting would require travel | Stay put if safe; never cross floodwater or approach downed lines to improve reception. |
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
