ZOLEO Delivers Field Communication During Disaster Response
Overview
Known for connecting communities in crisis, the Information Technology Disaster Resource Center (ITDRC) provides technical resources to support disaster relief and recovery operations. Since 2008, the volunteer-driven organization has responded to crises across the US, including wildfires, hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes.
Situational awareness is critical to mounting an effective relief effort. ZOLEO was paramount in the success of our relief mission. The devices enabled our team to effectively communicate with one another as well as automatically track each other’s locations so we could ensure everyone’s safety and security each step of the way.
Chris Hillis
Co-founder, ITDRC
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Connect with an ExpertChallenge
In August 2021, a 7.2-magnitude earthquake devastated Haiti, leaving over 650,000 individuals needing immediate assistance. ITDRC was deployed to provide critical support but faced significant communication obstacles due to severely damaged or completely destroyed infrastructure. Designed for stationary, internet-based use domestically, ITDRC's existing equipment was inadequate for Haiti's conditions, where cellular networks were largely non-existent even before the earthquake.
Key Challenges:
- Teams operated without internet or cellular networks due to extensive damage or outages
- Crews relied on traditional communication tools that required stationary setup and internet access
- Teams struggled to relay their locations or health status effectively
- Medical and logistical coordination was compromised during critical situations
- Crews navigated high-security risks in gang-controlled roadways and remote areas, increasing the urgency of reliable communication
Initially, responders relied on satellite dishes, which restricted their ability to send GPS coordinates or check-in while in transit, causing significant delays during critical moments.
Solution
ITDRC deployed nine ZOLEO devices to support in-field volunteers and cross-border coordination. Devices were used for location tracking, emergency messaging and providing medical updates between Haiti and the U.S.
Key Benefits:
- Rapid deployment in disaster zones with no setup
- Built-in GPS and SOS location sharing
- Text-based communication through a familiar mobile app
- Flexible pay-as-you-go satellite plans for mission scalability
Outcome
Using ZOLEO for field communication enabled the ITDRC volunteers to coordinate the installation of equipment and power at 15 sites to support NGOs providing critical relief to affected communities.
Going forward, ITDRC will continue relying on ZOLEO to help maximize visibility and minimize risk in high security operations and allow the organization to respond to disasters that would otherwise be deemed too risky. ZOLEO will be used to enhance operational efficiency, as well as to ensure the safety and security of its team both in the US and across the globe.
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