Quick-start Guide to PACE Planning

A PACE Plan is a simple yet crucial strategy for ensuring you have multiple ways to communicate. Having a PACE plan in place means you're prepared to stay in touch with your group or family even when things don't go according to plan.

Here are a few examples of when you might need a PACE Plan:

• During a power outage when landlines and internet might be down.
• While hiking or camping in an area with unreliable cell phone service.
• In the event of a natural disaster or emergency.
• When participating in group activities where communication is essential.

Filling Out the PACE Plan Sheet

A PACE Plan helps you organize your communication methods by how reliable they are.

PACE stands for:

• Primary
• Alternate
• Contingency
• Emergency

The PACE Plan sheet is designed to help you think through these different levels of communication and have them written down and ready to go. Let's break down each section of the sheet:

1. Primary (P):

This is your go-to, most reliable method of communication. What's the first way you'll try to get in touch with your group?

• Think about: What communication methods do you have available that are generally the most dependable in normal circumstances?
• Example:
• Cell Phone Call: If you have good cell service, a direct call could be your primary method.

In this section, you'll want to write down:

• The specific communication method.
• Any necessary details, like the phone numbers you'll be calling.

2. Alternate (A):

This is your second-best option. If your primary method fails for some reason (maybe you lost cell service), what's your next best bet?

• Think about: What's another reliable way you can communicate that you have access to?
• Example:
• Text Message (SMS): Even if voice calls are difficult, text messages sometimes get through with weaker cell signals.

In this section, you'll write:

• The alternate communication method.
• Any specific details needed to use it.

3. Contingency (C):

This is your third option, a backup for your backup. This method might be less reliable or might require more effort, but it's still a way to communicate if your first two options aren't working.

• Think about: What's a less ideal but still viable way to communicate?
• Example:
• Pre-arranged Check-in Times via a Less Reliable Method: Maybe you agree to try sending a short text message at specific times, even if you don't expect it to always work.

In this section, you'll note:

• The contingency communication method.
• Any important details like specific times or procedures.

4. Emergency (E):

This is your last resort for communication. This method is typically used only when all other options have failed, and you have an urgent need to communicate.

• Think about: What's a way to signal for help or communicate a critical message when nothing else is working?
• Example:
• Sending a Runner/Messenger: In a situation where electronic communication is impossible, you might designate someone to physically carry a message to a pre-determined location.

In this section, you'll describe:

• Your emergency communication method.
• Any specific signals or actions involved.

Key Things to Remember When Filling Out Your PACE Plan:

• Keep it Simple: Don't overcomplicate your plan. Clear and concise instructions are best.
• Be Realistic: Choose communication methods that you actually have access to and know how to use.
• Consider Your Group: Make sure everyone in your group understands the PACE plan and knows how to use the different communication methods.
• Practice: It's a good idea to practice using your PACE communication methods so everyone is familiar with them in a real situation.
• Review and Update: Your communication needs and the technology available to you might change over time. Regularly review and update your PACE plan as needed.

By filling out your PACE Plan sheet thoughtfully, you'll be much better prepared to stay connected with your group, no matter what the situation.