Some consumers purchase their cell phones for emergency use only. These consumers are relying on their cell phones as a vital means of getting help during personal and national emergencies. Remember, during widespread emergencies the calling volume in particular geographic areas can increase significantly and it is possible that a cell phone call may not go through.

Although cell phone carriers' networks can handle normal cellular traffic on most days, it is important to remember that their coverage and capacity isn't unlimited. When call volume is high and capacity is limited, users of cell phones capable of text messaging may be able to send a text message even if they cannot complete a voice call because text messages require much less capacity.