Why You Should Carry a Physical Map in Emergencies

While GPS and digital maps have become essential tools for navigation, they can fail when you need them most. In emergencies such as wildfires, severe storms, power outages, or network disruptions, relying solely on digital navigation can leave you stranded or lost.

A physical map provides a reliable backup that does not depend on batteries, cellular signals, or satellites. It can help you find safe evacuation routes, identify landmarks, and navigate unfamiliar terrain when technology fails.

• Wildfires: Smoke, road closures, and signal disruption can block your GPS.
• Severe weather: Hurricanes, floods, and storms often cause power and communication outages.
• Network failures: Cellular towers can be overwhelmed or damaged during emergencies.
• Power outages: Your phone or GPS device may run out of battery with no charging options.
• Remote areas: Some locations have limited or no digital map coverage.

Keeping a detailed, up-to-date physical map of your local area and potential evacuation zones can be lifesaving. Store it in a waterproof case along with other emergency supplies, and familiarize yourself with it beforehand.

Having a physical map ensures you maintain your orientation and independence in critical moments, helping you navigate safely and make informed decisions under pressure.