Nine phone settings that matter when a storm arrives. Most are off by default, and the last one still works when there is no signal at all.
Settings > Safety & emergency > Wireless emergency alerts. Switch on Extreme threats and Severe threats. They ride a dedicated tower channel, not your data.
Settings > Safety & emergency > Crisis alerts ships switched OFF. Turn it on and Google pushes natural-disaster updates for wherever you actually are.
Settings > Safety & emergency > Emergency SOS. Pick your emergency number, then choose who gets your location. It can also record video as it dials.
In the Safety app, open Your info > Medical information. Blood type, allergies and medication show to responders without unlocking the phone.
Settings > Location > Location services > Emergency Location Service. With it on, dialling 911 sends your position automatically, far closer than tower triangulation.
Safety app > Safety Check. Set a timer of up to 24 hours before you drive out or ride it out. Miss the confirmation and your contacts get your location.
Google Maps > your profile picture > Offline maps > Select your own map. Drag the box over your county. Navigation then works with the network down.
Settings > Battery > Battery Saver > Extreme Battery Saver. Google rates it for up to 48 hours. It pauses non-essential apps, so pick your keepers first.
Pixel 9 and newer carry Satellite SOS. With no cell or Wi-Fi, it routes an SOS through a satellite to a 24/7 response team. Free for two years after activation.
When it hits, text instead of calling. The FCC says texts get through congested networks that drop voice calls, and they use far less battery.