During the current pandemic, and in natural disasters in the future, programs can take steps to use phones remotely when staff and volunteers can’t be in the office.

Smartphones, tablets, and laptops can help advocates reach survivors, make files from the office accessible, send and receive email, and upload or update paperwork. Local programs using mobile devices should be aware of their privacy and safety issues.

One of the more secure and easier methods of communicating with survivors is via phone calls. To ensure privacy and safety, follow these best practices when communicating with survivors via phones.

Despite the many ways technology allows us to communicate nowadays, the fax machine is still used by many programs. Depending on the type of fax you use, the information you share could be vulnerable to interception or access by others.

These tools can be used by programs to provide access to services for Deaf survivors who reach out via phone. Other options include offering services through text, chat, or video.