It will be good to buy cell phone with radio waves and use the texting features of your cell phone to send a message to others. Prepare a list of emergency numbers and memorize it to use in the emergency.
The ambient weather radio will help you to know about the weather condition to keep your family safe according to it. The radio should have ability to store energy and can be charged with the help of solar power. You can play the radio with sunlight or Lithium Ion battery.
The hand crank radio is available with self charging ability, LED flashlight, solar and external charging options, USB and AC or DC adaptor. The radio will help you to stay updated because you can listen to news and other important information.