Have you ever stopped to consider how you would communicate with loved ones in the event of a widespread infrastructure failure, natural disaster or man-made atrocity? In an increasingly uncertain world, the ability to have 100-percent control over your communications is crucial to maintaining personal security. In this book, communications specialist Michael Chesbro offers expert in-depth guidance on integrating a broad spectrum of independent, alternative communications methods - from the various licensed and unlicensed radio services to digital modes - into a highly effective communications network for survival and self-reliance. He also examines standard operating procedures, options for establishing both local and international contacts, different types of equipment, methods of sending messages securely and more.