Recent increases in the frequency and intensity of natural hazards such as hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and wildfires have highlighted the importance of resilient infrastructure and effective emergency preparedness. These events highlight the critical role of telecommunications in enabling emergency communications, coordinating response efforts, and supporting affected communities. Strengthening mobile network systems, including base stations, transmission facilities, and power supplies, is therefore essential to maintain connectivity during crises to save lives.
In this context, mobile connectivity is a key pillar of public safety and disaster response. A guide to developing a national emergency roaming framework will serve as a reference for regulatory authorities and mobile network operators (MNOs) seeking to establish agreements for emergency roaming services. These agreements allow users of affected networks to roam on another national network and have access to voice, SMS, and data services at no additional cost, ensuring continuity of communication during outages, disasters, and in emergency situations.
These arrangements help maintain essential connectivity, support coordination among first responders and stakeholders, and strengthen recovery efforts.