Simple, Portable Internet in Major Disaster Zones
Extreme weather-related disasters are increasing
A report by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) shows that over the last 20 years, 90 percent of major disasters have been caused by extreme weather-related events. Furthermore, MarketWatch reports that in a ranking of the countries hit by the highest number of weather-related disasters, the U.S. comes in first place – with 472 disasters occurring over the past 20 years.
Power outages are common in flood, earthquake, hurricane and fire hit areas. These outages can cause hourly, daily, and even weeks-long disruption to communications, transportation and food and water spoilage. It can also prevent the use of essential medical devices and be the cause of closure of grocery stores, banks and gas stations. The impact on the economy and day-to-day life can be tremendous.
For disaster response crews and personnel, internet connectivity to coordinate relief efforts and track locations and monitor media coverage are just a few key reasons why a portable internet solution should be an essential part of their kit.
Why Is Portable Internet So Essential?
- Poor mapping and GPS services: Ensuring visibility and access to data regarding property and ownership – known as GIS data – is essential. Access to MSDS sheets will also provide potentially life-saving information on material safety.
- No personnel and equipment tracking: With no internet to track the real-time location of personnel, equipment and assets, including emergency vehicles and helicopters, valuable time and even lives can be lost.
- Inability to monitor news and media: Without internet connectivity, teams cannot stream media reports and news in real-time to obtain a No documents and recordscomplete 360-degree view of disaster and first response information.
- No documents and records: Wildfires, for example, spread fast. Remote connectivity can enable drone live stream video, providing real-time information to those on the ground.
Rapid Deployment Connectivity With Viasat Go-anywhere Pro
Viasat Go-anywhere Pro (BGAN) services provide dependable satellite connectivity in locations where terrestrial networks are unavailable, damaged or overloaded. They are well suited to emergency response, disaster recovery, remote operations and temporary field deployments, creating a Wi-Fi hotspot that can connect laptops, smartphones and other wireless devices within minutes.
Depending on the terminal and deployment configuration, users can also connect equipment through Ethernet and support voice communications using a standard analog phone. Portable systems may be powered from internal batteries, vehicle supplies, external batteries or solar panels, giving teams flexibility when fixed infrastructure is unavailable.
Ruggedized, auto-pointing terminals are designed for rapid operation in demanding environments on land or at sea. Enclosed systems can provide weather-resistant communications through heavy rain, ice and harsh field conditions, while automatically acquiring the satellite network to reduce setup time and specialist training requirements.
Ground Control supports a range of Viasat Go-anywhere Pro terminals, airtime services and deployment options. We can help identify the most appropriate current solution for your coverage, portability, power and data requirements.
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With over 40 years of combined knowledge of satellite experience, the Ground Control team is well placed to help keep you connected when it matters the most.
With complete satellite connectivity solutions for any situation and application, we’ve got you covered. Complete the form or email hello@groundcontrol.com and we’ll respond within one working day.