Phone tree

Each person calls 2-3 contacts, and information spreads exponentially. Build the tree for your family group or neighbourhood.

Fast communication saves lives

A phone tree is a chain communication system where each person is responsible for contacting 2 to 3 others. Instead of one person making dozens of calls, information spreads exponentially in minutes. It is a simple, reliable method that works even without internet access.

How it works

The concept

A phone tree organises a group of people into hierarchical communication levels:

  • Level 1 (Leader): the person who initiates the communication chain, usually the group or family coordinator
  • Level 2: each level 1 person contacts 2-3 people at level 2
  • Level 3: each level 2 person contacts 2-3 people at level 3
  • Level 4: the process continues according to the group size

Why use a phone tree?

  • Speed: with 3 levels and 3 contacts each, you can reach 40 people in minutes
  • Reliability: works even without internet, using voice calls or SMS
  • Shared responsibility: no one is overloaded with dozens of calls
  • Confirmation: each person confirms they received and passed on the message
  • Scales to any group: works for families, buildings, streets, or entire neighbourhoods

Build your tree

Tips for an effective tree

Organisation

  • Include neighbours: do not limit the tree to family. Neighbours are the first to help in an emergency
  • Assign roles: coordinator, communications, vulnerable check, logistics and animals
  • Have backups: each level should have at least one backup person
  • Update regularly: review numbers every 6 months
  • Test the tree: run a practice drill at least once a year

Backup communication

  • PMR446 channel: agree on a PMR446 radio channel as a fallback if mobile networks fail
  • Meeting point: set a physical meeting location in case all communications fail
  • SMS as fallback: if a call goes unanswered, send an SMS (these work on weaker signal)
  • Standard message: agree on a short key phrase to activate the tree (e.g. "Activate family plan")
  • Printed copy: each person should carry a printed copy of their direct contacts

Phone tree rules

  • Each person calls only their direct contacts (2-3 people at the next level)
  • If someone does not answer: try a second time, then move on to the next person and try again later
  • Confirm receipt: each person should confirm to their upper-level contact that they passed on the message
  • Do not alter the message: pass on the information exactly as you received it
  • Data is stored locally in your browser. Nothing is sent to any server