Several disasters in our nation's history have highlighted the importance of communication. The attacks of September 11, 2001 highlighted our lack of interagency communications. Hurricane Sandy highlighted how communication would improve the distribution of supplies. In both cases, we saw a need to improve current systems and create a network for use during a disaster. Here we will discuss incidents that highlighted needed improvements to systems and procedures, the evolution of communications and the importance of an effective system. Incidents that highlighted problems. - On the morning of September 11, 2001 two planes consecutively hit New York's World Trade Center buildings, one at 8:46 a.m. and the second FEMA contacted Thompson's company about using data mining to answer questions about what was necessary to improve emergency management efforts (Mc Kay, J. 2013). Thompson refers to a recovery example that highlights the effective use of social media in such situations (Mc Kay, J. 2013). For example, it explains how one church was able to specify needed supplies on Facebook (Mc Kay, J. 2013). This process allowed the church to receive the necessary supplies specific to their needs without excess and waste. As we have seen, it helps alert people to potential harm and can consequently minimize casualties. Furthermore, it can serve as an effective tool in resource distribution. Furthermore, it can provide basic interaction between families and their loved ones. Before, during and after a disaster, communication is vital because it allows the emergency system to function effectively. Without communication, lives can be lost, resources can remain unused or unwanted, and recovery is impossible. Knowing this, an effective system is needed at all levels, between agencies and between communities. With technological advances and a new culture of sharing we can use these systems to improve management and reduce emergencies