When I was a child living near Grantsville, West Virginia, some of my neighbors were very fond of amateur radio. I found their electronics, analog antennas, and ability to use Morse code fascinating.
They are passionate about it because they can talk to people thousands of miles away, use technology, and know they can help people in an emergency. Decades later, technology has changed; You don’t need to know Morse code anymorebut people are still out there in all weathers, helping others in times of disaster.
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After a disaster, Ham radio operators play an important role in relaying messages between disaster victims and their concerned friends and family members. These skilled volunteers use their equipment to Set up a communication networkusually when the cell tower is down and there is no Internet access.
Hams don’t just connect individuals — they also help coordinate large-scale relief efforts. They provide vital information to emergency management officials and help direct resources to where they are needed most.
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Although hams are “amateurs” at establishing and maintaining communication links between agencies and networks in disaster areas, they are truly professionals.
You see, hams don’t just act in emergencies. They receive regular training and participate in drills to ensure they are prepared to respond to disasters. The biggest exercise is Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) Field day.
in one era of advanced technologyham radio remains a reliable backup when other systems fail. Armed with skills and battery-powered radio equipment, operators are ready to provide a vital service, ensuring that in times of crisis, lines of communication remain open and help can arrive. be with those who need it.
Ham radio operators use one Many types of radio bands to communicate over long distances, allowing them to reach remote areas outside the disaster zone. This allows them to relay messages and information when local infrastructure is down.
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During a disaster, ham radio operators create self-organizing networks to relay messages in and out of affected areas. In the United States, they are regulated by Radio Amateur Civilian Emergency Service (RACES).
Many hams also complete the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Incident Management System (NIMS) And Incident Command System (ICS) courses to work effectively with emergency management communications frameworks. Additionally, some hams take the National Weather Service (SKYWARN) Train storm spotters to provide accurate severe weather reports. Finally, yes Auxiliary communications (AUXCOMM) training to integrate ham into local emergency operations centers.
Armed with equipment and training, hams create “traffic nets” or “nets” to transmit information about victims, supplies, and damage reports to authorities and family members on the outside. outside the disaster area. These networks have designated frequencies, schedules, and procedures to relay messages and information effectively. Hams can also be assigned to operate from emergency operations centers, shelters, hospitals, and other key locations to provide communications.
Operators use standardized message formats and processes to convey information accurately. This includes formal message formats, phonetic alphabets, and protocols for relaying messages between stations. Emergency traffic has priority over regular communications. Ham uses one Message priority system (Regular, Priority, Immediate, Flash) to ensure smooth traffic.
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Operators often check designated grids or report to designated locations before a natural disaster occurs. No one calls these operators out to work. They must report to their assigned network or stations and go on air.
Many emergency management agencies have formal agreements or memoranda of understanding with amateur radio organizations. This allows for coordinated planning and response.
Want to help the next time a storm hits? You can start your path to becoming a ham by Study the ham radio conceptTerminology and regulations for using resources such as ARRL Technician Class Licensing Guide. Then, in the US, you will need to pass the FCC Amateur radio licensing exam.
You will also need to purchase a starter transceiver, e.g Bao Phong UV-5Ra compact handheld radio transceiver delivering four watts in the UHF/VHF frequency range. If you’re really into this hobby, you can buy mountains of equipment from companies like Ham Radio. You can also often buy good quality used equipment from bars, other radio enthusiasts’ gatherings, and local clubs.
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I also highly recommend it Connect with a local ham group. They can get you up to speed faster than any other way. Members can also help you get the hang of it Ham jargoncan cause confusion.
And, on that note, 73 SK.
