Amateur Radio Emergency Communication
City of Chesapeake
Introduction
Welcome! Amateur Radio is a wonderful hobby which continues to evolve and provides a growing number of activities and
new information and skills that can keep one involved for a life time. However, the serious side of the hobby is our
ability and our history of providing communication when everything else fails.
All organizations go through change as a result of changing requirements and changing personnel. Certainly, the Internet
and cell phones technology have changed the way we do business. However commercially deployed technology is based upon
case business practices and municipal emergency communication services are budget constrained. As a result it is not
surprising that unpredictable events are a source of communication failures. So in reality, the requirements have not changed,
but people have.
The Internet has allowed access to a large volume of information on Amateur Radio and Emergency Communication. A list of
links is provided in this site. As a disclaimer, this site does not strive to be all encompassing or encyclopedic.
This site reflects my opinions on how things are supposed to be organized. However, every disaster reveals the many wrong
assumptions and flaws in the best made plans. The site strives to be a starting point and focal point for
discussion on Amateur Radio emergency communications in the City of Chesapeake. Feel free to e-mail me with comments
and queries at [email protected].
Communication involves the two way exchange of information. For communication to be effective it must be accurate
and timely. When it comes to radio communications, Amateur Operators can be proud of their skills.
The FCC recognizes the fact that active HAMS know their equipment well and keep them in good
working order. The experienced Ham listens well and is cognizant of the effects of good and bad on-the-air behavior.
The primary new skills in working in an emergency situation are knowledge and skill of participating in various nets and
understanding how to interface with non-technologically oriented individuals in the various agencies. However, your
main value is your general operating skill and your willingness to help.
Membership in ARES or RACES does not preclude involvement in emergency nets or any public service events.
If you are licensed and have the right attitude, we can always use your help. As Amateur Radio operators,
we are not allowed to receive any form of compensaton for our services. So radio equipment often are provided
at our own expense. It is very useful to know which operator is currently active, what possible resources they
can provide and who may be available to help. I say MAY be available. Membership in the City of Chesapeake ARES
is not a commitment to participate in any event. It does mean that you are interested enough that I can continue
to send information to you. Of course there is no monetary requirements.
Registration
Please e-mail the following to [email protected]:
- Name
- Call Sign
- Age if less than 18 y/o
- Good phone number
- e-mail address
- What kind of VHF and HF equipment you have?
- Which modes you can carry on a QSO? FM, SSB, CW, RTTY, PSK31, PACTOR II, Packet, etc.
- Do you have an emergency power supply?
- What experience you have had with Emergency or Public Service Communications?
- Would you rather receive information by regular mail or e-mail?
Sections
Training
Links
Emergency Plan Overview
It is hoped that a quarterly newletter will go out.
73
Leo Kusuda
KG4PWC
City of Chesapeake Emergency Coordinator