Emergency Communication Network Strengthens Neighborhood Safety in Taos

Taos residents—especially elders and isolated households—have historically lacked reliable emergency communication during wildfires, winter storms, power outages, and other crises. When traditional communication infrastructure fails, residents can become disconnected from the assistance, resources, and information needed to maintain safety during critical events. To help address this emergency preparedness gap, the Chief of Taos County Fire District 3 identified a solution and reached out to LOR: launch a pilot neighborhood communication and mutual-aid network to strengthen local coordination and support residents during emergencies. With funding from LOR, Taos County Fire District 3 will establish a pilot program that divides a neighborhood into zones, each supported by two volunteer coordinators. The program will provide handheld radios, a repeater system, and tablets, along with a secure digital map (built from voluntarily shared household information) that includes emergency contacts, access considerations, and special needs. During infrastructure failures or evacuations, coordinators will communicate directly via handheld radios, reducing strain on 911 dispatch systems. Beyond emergency response, the program supports housing stability and aging in place by helping vulnerable residents access heating fuel, medications, utility assistance, transportation, and welfare checks to prevent displacement. The pilot will produce a documented model that can be replicated in other Taos neighborhoods.