The early start to the fire season is a timely reminder of how important it is to stay connected during emergencies. Telstra continually invests in the strength and resilience of our network. Even so, extreme weather can affect our services, which is why we have tailored plans in place if natural disasters do occur.
We have specially trained workforce around the country whose priority is to repair and restore services as soon as possible. Telstra has mobile equipment ready to move into areas quickly, and the use of drones helps us to assess the damage and restore services faster.
We have about 40,000 network sites that require power, including data centres, exchanges and mobile base stations. These sites usually have backup power but not for extended periods. Routine maintenance and testing is performed on the generators and batteries at all sites to ensure they are in good operational condition.
New technology and our investments in building networks for the future have put us in a stronger position to respond to extreme weather and service disruptions.
There are also plenty of things you can do to make it easier to stay connected in a natural disaster:
Mobile phones
• Purchase a solar, in-car, or power bank charger.
• Back up your data.
• Compile a list of essential contact numbers including local emergency services, friends and family, and Telstra’s fault line (13 22 03).
• If communications are critical you could consider a satellite phone.
Fixed line phones
• Have a spare battery and spare plug-in phone handy.
• For our NBN customers, if there is a power outage your phone line will also be down so keep a mobile or satellite phone nearby.
Other ways
• Set up an instant messaging group with family and friends.
• Download emergency service apps for information and alerts.
• Identify key local social media accounts and websites to follow.
• Know your emergency broadcaster and have a battery powered radio with spare batteries handy.
For more information visit https://exchange.telstra.com.au/preparing-for-australias-summer-disaster-season/