Newswise — CRUCIAL COMMUNICATIONS: Research at Clemson may revolutionize disaster relief and battlefield communications. The technology uses spread-spectrum for wireless communication networks that do not depend on cell towers or other infrastructure such as telephone lines. Instead, network functions are built into each phone, and a distributed network of wireless phones relays messages between users that are too far apart for direct contact. "This is critical for post-disaster relief teams operating in areas that are devastated by hurricanes, other natural disasters or terrorist activities," says Clemson University Holcombe Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Michael Pursley. "First responders can communicate with one another even if cell towers or telephone lines are disabled as they were following Hurricane Katrina." The equipment will be lighter and more mobile: Instead of the 18-pound backpack radios currently used, future communication devices could be as small as commercial cell phones.
REBUILDING: Given that Katrina, Rita and Wilma will not be the last hurricanes to strike the area, homeowners should consider structural upgrades to improve the performance of their homes, says Clemson civil engineer Scott Schiff. He says many insurance policies are written such that the available funds will allow the homeowner to rebuild only as it was. Consequently, if it failed once, it will fail again in another severe storm. Homeowners need to be creative with their available funds so that they can break the cycle. Schiff says a better understanding of the windfield, assessment of past engineering, quality of construction and enforcement of the building code can lead to better construction.
COMMUNICATION IS KEY TO TOURISM RECOVERY: Clemson University research has found that open communication is key to attracting potential tourists after a disaster. According to a study led by professor of parks, recreation and tourism management Sheila Backman, a little truth can go a long way.
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