I have a cell phone, which I will admit, I would be lost without. It wasn't until I was pregnant that my husband and parents insisted on me getting one. So, I did and it is definately worth it. It is true if you are out of range or roaming you MAY NOT always be able to recieve phone calls. If you have voice mail they would be forwarded to it. Obviously that would not be of much help in an emergency. However, I still think this is the best way to ensure your availability. Beepers are great also. My husband and father have had them for years and never missed a page. As matter of fact I had paged my parents while in Church when my Grandmother had a stroke - they were home in minutes. You also have options on pagers. You can get the ones that have a prinited message on the screen so you know exactally what is going on. I my opinion I would opt for the cell phone. It may be more costly, but well, well worth it! Good luck!