VII. OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES

E. Message Formats. In an emergency, traffic can be tactical and, on -the-fly to pass information requiring immediate direction and action. Traffic can be formal, when the message being transmitted is lengthy or complicated, and requires accuracy and clarity and documentation. Formal written traffic is also important for:

1. Having a complete message which minimizes omission of vital information.

2. Having a concise message , which when used correctly actually takes less time than passing informal traffic.

3. Having easier copy when the receiving operators know the sequence of the information, resulting in fewer errors and repeats.

4. When relays are likely to be involved, standard ARRL message format should be used. The record should show, wherever possible:

a. A message number for reference purposes.
b. A precedence indicating the importance of the message.
c. A station of origin so any reply or handling inquiries can be referred to that station.
d. A check (count of the number of words in the message text) so receiving stations will know whether any words were missed.
e. A place of origin, so the recipient will know where the message came from (not necessarily the location of the station of origin).
f. Filing time, ordinarily optional but of great importance in an emergency message.
g. Date of origin.
h. The address should be complete and include a telephone number if known.
i. The text should be short and to the point, and the signature should contain not only the name of the person sending the message but his title or connection also, if any.