Emergency communication for your neighbourhood
When mobile networks fail, your neighbourhood can stay connected. Build emergency communication that works without internet or mains power.
Prepared neighbourhoods are resilient neighbourhoods
During emergencies – blackouts, storms, network failures – the ability to communicate with neighbours can be critical. Who needs help? Who has supplies? Is everyone safe? Without communication, coordination becomes impossible.
MeshCore uses LoRa radio on the licence-free 868 MHz band to create emergency communication that works independently of mobile networks and internet. Your street or village becomes its own communication network.
LocalMesh helps communities across the UK build these emergency networks. Set it up before you need it.
Why build a neighbourhood emergency network
Coordinate during emergencies
Quickly check on vulnerable neighbours, share information about conditions, organise mutual support when normal communication fails.
Independent of infrastructure
No mobile mast, no broadband router, no landline required. Works when everything else fails.
Works during blackouts
LoRa devices run for days to weeks on battery. Communication continues when mains power is out.
Share locations
GPS-enabled devices let you share coordinates. Useful for directing help or coordinating meetups during emergencies.
Broadcast to everyone
A single message reaches every device on your channel simultaneously. Essential for emergency alerts and coordination.
Private messaging available
One-to-one messages use end-to-end encryption for sensitive emergency communications.
How to set up your neighbourhood emergency network
Get your street prepared with these steps:
Step 1: find interested neighbours
Identify three or four neighbours interested in emergency preparedness. Each needs a LoRa radio (from around £50). See device recommendations.
Step 2: test your coverage
Position yourselves at different points in the neighbourhood. Send test messages. Identify where Signals are strong and where they're weak.
Step 3: install a repeater
A repeater mounted on a chimney or in a loft dramatically improves coverage. One volunteer with a repeater can serve an entire street or village.
Step 4: inform other neighbours
Let other households know the emergency network exists. Share how they can join if interested. More participants means better coverage.
Step 5: test regularly
Run occasional tests to ensure everyone knows how to use the system. During an actual emergency is not the time to learn.
Benefits of neighbourhood emergency networks
Check on vulnerable neighbours
Quickly confirm elderly or vulnerable neighbours are safe during emergencies when phones don't work.
Coordinate supplies
Share information about who has what – torches, water, medical supplies. Coordinate distribution.
Share emergency information
Pass on updates about conditions, road closures, or official guidance across the neighbourhood.
Request help
Alert neighbours if you need assistance – whether medical help, emergency supplies, or just someone to check in.
Works during blackouts
Battery-powered devices keep working when mains power fails. Days of operation from a single charge.
Private when needed
One-to-one messages are encrypted. Broadcast to the group or message individuals privately.
Emergency scenarios
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Power outage: "Power's been out 6 hours. Is everyone okay? Does anyone need candles or batteries?"
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Flooding: "Water rising on Oak Street. Can anyone on higher ground take supplies to number 42?"
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Storm damage: "Tree down blocking the main road. Alternative route via Mill Lane."
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Welfare check: "Haven't seen Mrs. Johnson today. Can someone at number 15 check on her?"
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Medical emergency: "Need first aider at 23 High Street. Phone lines down."
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Evacuation: "Official advice to evacuate. Meeting at the village hall car park."
Common questions
How many devices do we need?
Start with three or four to test coverage. A repeater significantly extends range. More devices means better coverage.
What does it cost per household?
Devices start around £50 per household. No subscriptions ever. One repeater (£50-100) can serve many households.
Is it difficult to set up?
Most people complete setup in under an hour. The Discord community offers help with any questions.
Does it work during blackouts?
Yes. Devices run for days on battery. This is the main advantage – communication when mains power is out.
How far does the Signal reach?
Range varies with terrain and buildings. A repeater at height typically covers a village or housing estate. Multiple repeaters extend coverage further.
Can we connect with other neighbourhoods?
Yes. The mesh network routes messages through intermediate devices. If neighbouring areas also have MeshCore users, messages can travel between communities automatically.
Get your neighbourhood prepared
Emergency communication is most effective when set up before an emergency. A few prepared households can help an entire neighbourhood during a crisis.