Emergency Need-To-Know Info Before Hiking in Oklahoma

One of the worst feelings in the world has to be helplessness. The last thing you'd want to be is helpless when you're out and about exploring Oklahoma and then suddenly, when you need help the most, you think there's no way to reach it.

The good news is that Oklahoma isn't like Texas - we aren't nearly as spread apart nor as big. Granted, Oklahoma still has plenty of acreage to get lost in, but it isn't the worst place to be to reach signal when you need it.

Contrary to popular belief, there are ways to reach emergency services even if you don't have signal. In fact, technology advancement has made more options available if you happen to be out and about.

Satellite Updates To Help Reach Authorities in Oklahoma

Some folks have mentioned a new update for iPhones that allows your phone to connect to a satellite when in SOS mode. The update allows you to make phone calls, send and receive messages and update your location for those who have it.

Update Info iPhone Users Need To Know:

• Use the demo before you need the system
• Make sure you have iMessages turned on, as you'll need them to use the messages for the satellite
• You'll want a clear sky to send messages quicker than under trees or cloudy weather.

Keep in mind the satellite update is only available for iPhone 14 and newer and you'll need to make sure your phone is as up-to-date as possible.

For Andriod Users in Oklahoma, you're also able to use satellites to make calls as well. You may be asked to fill out an emergency questionnaire. It will also give you the option to notify your emergency contacts with the questionnaire.

Andriod users should also use the demo before you actually need to use this system in an emergency to familiarize yourself with this. The Satellite SOS feature is only available on: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold only, according to Google Support.

Can You Reach Authorities Without Signal Or Satellite?

For folks without newer phones, you're still able to reach emergency services. Even if your phone says that you don't have signal, you're still able to call 911. Although, authorities are not able to get your location from the phone call nor are they able to call you back if the call is disconnected.

Unfortunately for those who prefer texting over calling, texting 911 is not an option when you're without signal. Focus on figuring out your exact location or any significant landmarks around you to help the call be just a tad less stressful.

Areas in Oklahoma With The Worst Signal

If you're worried about losing signal in certain areas of Oklahoma, there are a few places you'll want to either avoid or make sure you have your map planned out ahead of time.

According to the FCC's Interactive Map, most of Oklahoma has signal; albiet some areas have slower signal than others. Depending on who your provider is, the most difficult areas to keep signal are:

• Panhandle
• Southeastern Oklahoma
• Portions of southewest Oklahoma

Check out the list below for the specific areas in Oklahoma that you probably won't have signal.