Visual LEVEL1.1
Lesson 16: Operations & Logistics
Visual LEVEL1.2
Choosing Phone Net Frequencies
 Amateurs have a vast
amount of radio spectrum
 Most local and regional
emcomm communication
takes place on:
 2 meter or 70 centimeter
FM
 40, 60, or 80 meter
SSB/CW
Visual LEVEL1.3
Choosing Phone Net Frequencies
 The choice made is based on the locations to be covered, the
availability of repeaters, distance, terrain, and band conditions
 VHF and UHF FM

Preferred for most local operations
• Equipment is common
• Portable
• Clear voice quality
• Coverage is extended by repeater stations
 Larger areas or in areas without repeaters,

HF SSB may be needed
Visual LEVEL1.4
VHF and UHF Range
Terrain
Repeater Coverage
Antenna Height
Visual LEVEL1.5
HF
 Most local emcomm operation
 40
or 80-meter bands
 Near Vertical Incidence Skywave (NVIS)
 Long-haul communication & international
 15
or 20-meter nets
Visual LEVEL1.6
Know Your Resources In Advance
 Many emcomm groups will have pre-selected a
number of frequencies for specific purposes
 Complete list of these frequencies should be in
your jump kit
 Become familiar with the coverage and features
of repeaters and digital message systems in your
area
 Pre-program your radios with the frequencies,
offsets, and CTCSS tones
Visual LEVEL1.7
Know Your Resources In Advance
 Which repeaters are used for emergency communication in your






area?
Will they be available for exclusive emcomm use, or must they be
shared with other users?
How does it identify itself?
Are there any "dead spots" in critical areas? How much power is
required to reach the repeater with a clear, quiet, signal from key
locations?
Does the repeater have a courtesy tone, and what does it sound
like? Do the tones change depending on the repeater's mode?
How long is the "time-out timer"?
Is it part of a linked system of repeaters? What features does it
have, and which touch-tone commands or CTCSS tones activate
them?
Visual LEVEL1.8
Know Your Resources In Advance
 Net frequencies that support digital communication
systems, such as packet radio bulletin board messaging
systems, AMTOR, PSK31 and RTTY:
 Which software do they use? ARESPACK, Fnpack,
FNpsk?
 Do the digital systems have mailboxes or digipeater
functions?
 Which other nodes can they connect to? Can traffic be
passed over an Internet link automatically or manually?
 How many connections can they support at once?
Visual LEVEL1.9
Network Coverage Concerns
 Emcomm managers rely on simplex operation when
planning their VHF or UHF FM nets
 Repeaters often do not survive disasters or are
overwhelmed with the amount of traffic
 Simplex range is limited by




Terrain
Output power
Antenna gain
Height
 Operation over a wide area can be a challenge
Visual LEVEL1.10
Avoid Last Minute Surprises
 Pre-test all known fixed
locations in your area for
coverage
 If you are serving the
Red Cross, test
simplex coverage from
each official shelter to
the Red Cross office
and the city's EOC or
other key locations,
and mobile coverage in
the same areas
Visual LEVEL1.11
Improving Simplex Range
 Use an antenna with greater gain
 Move the antenna away from obstructions
 Use a directional antenna
 Increase antenna height
 Increase transmitter output power as a last resort
Visual LEVEL1.12
Portable Duplex Repeater
 Quickly deployed at a high
point in the desired coverage
area
 Just has to reach and
hear the stations in your
net
 Back seat of a car, using a
mobile antenna, and parked
on a ridge or even the top
floor of a parking garage
 Portable masts and trailermounted towers
Visual LEVEL1.13
Cross Band Repeat
 Dual-band radios
 Mobile can relay your
transmission to a repeater for
even greater range
 Use low or medium power
setting to avoid overheating
and damage
 Consider using a fan to
further reduce the
likelihood that your radio
will be damaged from
overheating.
Visual LEVEL1.14
Cross Band Repeat - Simplex
Visual LEVEL1.15
Cross Band Repeat – Repeater (1)
Receive the repeater
output directly on your hand-held
and the cross-band unit operates
in simplex mode
Visual LEVEL1.16
Cross Band Repeat – Repeater (2)
Receive the repeater output
directly on your hand-held and
the cross-band unit operates in
duplex mode. Your cross-band
unit listens away from the
repeater input frequency which can,
in some cases, reduce interference
to your unit.
Visual LEVEL1.17
Cross Band Repeat – Repeater (3)
Receive the repeater back
through your cross-band system.
The downside of this method is
that until the repeater's carrier drops,
your cross-band unit will continue
to transmit, which does not allow
you to transmit.
Visual LEVEL1.18
Frequency and Net Resource Management
 Actual practice our choices are
limited to the available operators
and their equipment
 Net managers may occasionally
need to "shift" resources to meet
changing needs
 Early stages of an
emergency => tactical nets
may require more operators
 Later stages => health and
welfare traffic might increase
Visual LEVEL1.19
Message Relays
Third station "relay" the messages
Unable to communicate
directly
Move the stations involved off the main net frequency
to avoid tying up the channel for an extended period
Visual LEVEL1.20
Radio Room Security
 Allow only the operators who are
on duty to be in the room
 Protect your equipment
 Protect messages you handle
 Prevent unnecessary
distractions
 Avoid leaving the radio room and
equipment unattended and
accessible
 Don’t allow members of the press
to be in the room without specific
permission from the served agency
Visual LEVEL1.21
Record Keeping
 Most served agencies will expect you to keep records of your
operations
 Original copies of any messages sent
 Station logs
 Memos
 Official correspondence
 Some may even require you to keep "scratch" notes and informal
logs
 Keep these records in your own possession for a time, or to turn
some or all records over to the agency at the end of operations
 What about records that are on a computer?

Know your agency’s policy in advance
Visual LEVEL1.22
Record Keeping
 In some agencies, your station
records are permanent and
important legal documents,
and must be treated as such
 Know your served agency's
policy on record keeping in
advance so that you can
comply from the very beginning
of operations
Visual LEVEL1.23
Record Keeping
 Station operating logs should contain:






Your arrival and departure times
Times you check in and out of specific nets
Each message, by number, sender, addressee, and
other handling stations
Critical events -- damage, power loss, injuries, earth
tremors, other emergencies
Staff changes -- both emcomm and site management, if
known
Equipment problems and issues
Visual LEVEL1.24
Record Keeping
 Every individual message or note should be labeled with a
time and date
 Scratch notes

Place dates and times next to each note on a sheet, so
that information can be use later to determine a course
of events
 “Portable office" type file box, expanding file, or any other
suitable container can be used to organize and file the
messages
Visual LEVEL1.25
Dealing With Stress
 Most people are not used
to working under extreme
stress for long periods,
and do not know how to
handle it
 Nervous breakdowns are
common among those
who get overwhelmed
 Have not learned to
manage stress and
stress-causing
situations
Disoriented
Unable to make
good decisions
Lose temper
Behave in ways
you never would
any other time
Unable to make
any decision
Visual LEVEL1.26
Confused
Dealing With Stress
 Tendency is to regard every situation or need as
an "emergency," requiring an immediate
response
 You might get a barrage of requests for action
 You might not have the extra seconds it
requires to fully consider the options, and to
prioritize your actions
 The result is an overload of responsibility, which
can lead to unmanageable levels of stress
Visual LEVEL1.27
Dealing With Stress
 You cannot eliminate
disaster-related stress
 You can certainly take
steps to reduce or
control it
Visual LEVEL1.28
Stress Management
 Delegate some of your responsibilities to others. Take on those
tasks only you can handle.
 Prioritize your actions --the most important and time-sensitive
ones come first.
 Do not take comments personally -- mentally translate "personal
attacks" into "constructive criticism" and a signal that there may
be an important need that is being overlooked.
 Take a few deep breaths and relax. Do this often, especially if
you feel stress increasing. Gather your thoughts, and move on.
 Watch out for your own needs -- food, rest, water, medical
attention.
Visual LEVEL1.29
Stress Management
 Do not insist on working more than your assigned shift if others can take
over
 Get rest when you can so that you will be ready to handle your job more
effectively later on
 Take a moment to think before responding to a stress-causing challenge -- if
needed, tell them you will be back to them in a few minutes
 If you are losing control of a situation, bring someone else in to assist or
notify a superior
 Do not let a problem get out of hand before asking for help
 Keep an eye on other team members, and help them reduce stress when
possible
Visual LEVEL1.30
Case Example 16-1
 In a recent activation, an after action report commented on
how one Amateur Radio Operator supporting an EOC
worked for 36 hours straight. He was praised for his
dedication.
 Discussion

What is good about this?
 What are the problems with this?
 How would you have handled this situation?
• If you were this operator
• If you were the EMCOMM manager for this operator
Visual LEVEL1.31
Case Example 16-2
 In a recent exercise debriefing, an Amateur Radio
Operator said that in the event of an earthquake if he was
assigned second shift at the EOC, he would not stand idle
waiting for his shift. He would assist in other ways in the
community and then proceed to work his 12 hour EOC
shift.
 Discussion

What is good about this?
 What are the problems with this?
 How would you do awaiting the start of your EOC shift?
Visual LEVEL1.32
Dealing with Big Egos
 Some within the emergency response community have
"big egos“
 Others with a need to be in full control at all times
 Take time now to consider how you will respond to the
challenges they present
Visual LEVEL1.33
Dealing with Big Egos
 Come up with a different and more positive response
strategy => not anger
 Depending on the official position of the "problem" person,
you might:
 Do your job as best you can, and deal with it after the
emergency is over
 Politely decline and state your reasons
 Refer the issue to a superior
 Choose in advance to volunteer in another capacity and
avoid that person altogether
Visual LEVEL1.34
Long Term Operations
 Additional operators to allow for regular shift changes, and those










who go home
Replacement equipment, as operators leave with their own gear
or it fails
Food and water
Suitable place to sleep or rest
Generator fuel
Fresh batteries
Sanitation facilities
Shelter
Message handling supplies, forms
Alternate NCS operators, backups
Additional net resources to handle message traffic
Visual LEVEL1.35
Battery Management
 You will eventually need to recharge your batteries
 Some batteries need more time to recharge than others

This time needs to be taken into account in your
planning
 Slow-charging batteries

May need to have enough on-hand to last the entire
length of the operation
Visual LEVEL1.36
Battery Management
 Deep cycle marine batteries can require a full day or
longer to fully recharge
 Sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries, also known as "gelcells", require up to 18 hours to recharge depending on the
size of the battery
 NiCd, LIon, and similar batteries can be recharged quite
quickly
 Repeated rapid charge cycles can reduce overall
battery life
Visual LEVEL1.37
Generator and Power Safety
 Placement of generators

Engine noise
• Difficult for shelter residents and volunteers to get much
needed rest, and for anyone trying to do their job

Exhaust fumes
• Should not be allowed to enter the building or nearby
tents or vehicles
• "down-wind" of any occupied location is best
Visual LEVEL1.38
Generator and Power Safety
 Earth Grounding


Not required as long as only plug and cord connected
equipment is used, and the generator meets National
Electrical Code (NEC) standards listed in Article 250-6
Exception is for generators that will be connected, even
temporarily, to a building's permanent electrical system.
 For further details on grounding AC electrical systems, please
refer to Article 250 of the NEC
 Primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon
monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric
shock or electrocution, and fire.
 Follow the directions supplied with the generator.
 Every year, people die in incidents related to portable
generator use.
Visual LEVEL1.39
Generator Safety Policy
 Generator Placement





Generators are placed in an area off limits to unauthorized persons
and children.
Generator is dry and not used in rain or wet conditions. Generator is
operating on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure,
such as under a tarp held up on poles.
Generator is operating outdoors in a well-ventilated dry area.
Generator is operating away from air intakes to any structure.
All operators are using dry hands before touching the generator.
 Generator Grounding


Generator is grounded using a ground rod and large gauge wire
(AWG 8 or larger) to bond the generator frame to ground. OR
Generator is properly grounded per the manufacturer’s manual.
 Wiring


Generator is not connected directly to existing wiring (avoid back
feeding system).
Individual devices are connected directly to the receptacle outlet of
the generator or via approved extension cord.
Visual LEVEL1.40
Generator Safety Policy
 Extension Cords are





Outdoor rated
Of sufficient gauge and length to handle electrical loads without daisychaining
Free of cuts or tears and cracked housings.
Have three conductors and plugs have all three prongs.
Routed to prevent tripping hazard.
 Generator Capacity

Loads are less than the output rating of the generator.
 Manufacturer’s Instructions


A copy of the generator’s operating manual is available at the generator
site.
Operation is consistent with all instructions in generator's owner manual.
Visual LEVEL1.41
Generator Safety Policy
 Fuel Storage



Fuel is stored outdoors.
Fuel is stored in properly labeled, non-glass safety containers.
Fully charged, approved fire extinguisher is located near the generator.
 Refueling

Generator is off and cool before refueling.
 Shutdown

All equipment is turned off before shutting down generator.
 Burn Hazard

Exposed mufflers and other hot parts are protected and labeled.
Visual LEVEL1.42
Ground Fault Interrupters (GFIs)
 GFIs detect any difference between the currents
flowing on the hot and neutral conductors, and
opens the circuit
 Test any GFI device to be used with or near HF
radios to be sure that the GFI will function
properly while the radio is transmitting.
Visual LEVEL1.43
AC Extension Cords
 Should be rated for the actual load

Consider radios, lights, chargers, and other accessories
when calculating the total load
 Extension cords are rated only for their actual length

Cannot be strung together to make a longer cord
without "de-rating" the cord's capacity
 A typical 16ga, 50' orange "hardware store" cord is
rated for 10 amps. When two are used to run 100', the
rating drops to only 7 amps
Visual LEVEL1.44
AC Extension Cords
 Choose a single length of cord rated for the load
and the entire distance you must run it.
 If this is not possible, you can also run two or
more parallel cords to the generator in order to
reduce the load on any single cord.
 For more information on portable power cord
requirements, consult Article 400 of the NEC.
Visual LEVEL1.45
What About Using "Romex ™"
 "Romex ™" type wire for long
extension cords
 Violation of the National
Electrical Code
 Dangerous practice
 Repeated bending, rolling,
and abrasion cause the
copper conductors and
insulation to break, resulting
in a fire and electrocution
hazard
Use only flexible insulated
extension cords that are UL rated
for temporary, portable use
Visual LEVEL1.46
Electrical Safety Guidelines
 Electrical codes require
three-wire power cords and
plugs on many tools and
appliances.
 The “hot” wire is usually
black.
 The “neutral” wire is
usually white.
 The frame/ground wire
is usually green or bare
wire.
 Do not install higher current
capacity fuses in an existing
circuit.
Visual LEVEL1.47
Breaker box Service
Disconnect on left.
Visual LEVEL1.48
Ground Everything
For best protection from electrical shock all equipment
should be connected to a common ground.
Visual LEVEL1.49
Visual LEVEL1.50
The Fuse
 A fuse or circuit breaker should
always be added in series with
home built equipment that is
powered from 110 volt AC lines.
 In a 12 volt DC system fuses
should be located at the voltage
source.
 When a fuse blows an open circuit
is created.
 Never replace a blown fuse with a
higher amperage rated fuse.
Visual LEVEL1.51
Electrical and RF Safety
 Fuses and circuit breakers

The purpose of a fuse in an electrical circuit is to
interrupt power in case of overload.
 If you install a 20-ampere fuse in your transceiver in the
place of a 5-ampere fuse excessive current could cause
a fire. (Note: If it didn’t cause a fire, it still could result in
damage to the equipment.)
 Grounding

Ground is connected to the green wire in a three-wire
electrical plug.
Visual LEVEL1.52
Electrical and RF Safety
 Lightning protection

The precautions that should be taken when a
lightning storm is expected are:
• Disconnect the antenna cables from your station and
move them away from your radio equipment
• Unplug all power cords from AC outlets
• Stop using your radio equipment and move to
another room until the storm passes
• All of these answers are correct

Fire prevention is the most important reason to
have a lightning protection system for your amateur
radio station.
GET OFF THE AIR DURING SEVERE STORMS!!
Visual LEVEL1.53
Lightning
Visual LEVEL1.54
RF Safety
 Ensure that all stations comply
 With hand-held transceivers,
 No person should be near any
 Don't work on antennas that
with the FCC requirements for
maximum permissible exposure
to RF radiation.
transmitting antenna while it is in
use.
 Make certain that the RF
amplifiers with the covers
removed.
have RF power applied.
 Don't stand or sit close to a
radiation is confined to the
antennas' radiating elements.
 Don't operate high-power
keep the antenna away from
your head and use the lowest
power possible.
power supply when the ac
power is on.
 Never look into a waveguide or
directive UHF/SHF antenna
when power may be applied.
Visual LEVEL1.55
RF Safety
Even though hand-held radios are exempt from RF
exposure limits, minimum power should be used with a
hand-held to minimize RF exposure to the operator's head
(eyes)
A mobile transceiver with roof mounted antenna would
have better shielding for the vehicle occupants than using
a hand-held transceiver in a vehicle
Visual LEVEL1.56
Equipment -- Leaving Yours Behind?
 You are exhausted, and ready to head for home,
but the emcomm operation is far from over.
 You brought along a complete station, and when
you leave, the next operator is not nearly as well
equipped.
 Should you leave your equipment behind for the
next operator?
Visual LEVEL1.57
Equipment -- Leaving Yours Behind?
 No one can, or should, tell you to leave your
equipment behind
 If you feel comfortable that someone you know
and trust will look after your gear, you may
choose to leave some or all of it behind
 Be sure every piece is marked with at least
your name and call sign
 Do not leave behind anything the next operator
does not truly need
You still have the ultimate responsibility
for its operation and safety
Visual LEVEL1.58
Equipment -- Leaving Yours Behind?
 Emergency stations are difficult places to control
and monitor.
 If your equipment is stolen, lost, or damaged, you
should not hold anyone responsible but yourself.
 Conversely, if someone leaves their equipment in
your care, treat and protect it better than you
would your own, and be sure it is returned safely
to its owner.
Visual LEVEL1.59
Accepting Specialized Assignments
 You may be asked to handle other assignments for the
served agency that may or may not include communicating
 At one time, most emcomm groups had strict policies
against doing other tasks
 This is still true of some
 At this time, ACS & MST do not have a written policy
 Today, most emcomm groups will permit their members to
be cross-trained for, and perform, a variety of servedagency skills that also include communicating
 ACS & MST do support this
Visual LEVEL1.60
Accepting Specialized Assignments
Visual LEVEL1.61
Lesson 16 Activities
1. Develop a set of "rules" to help a new emcomm group
member deal with stress during an emergency.
2. Develop a list of at least five possible served agency jobs
that would also require your communication skills.
3. Develop five safety rules pertaining to generators and
electrical lines in and near a radio room.
Visual LEVEL1.62
Lesson 16 Questions
1. Which of the following will NOT limit VHF
simplex range?
A. Terrain
B. Output Power
C. Antenna Gain
D. Digipeaters
Visual LEVEL1.63
Lesson 16 Questions
2. Which of the following actions will NOT improve
simplex reception?
A. Increase the antenna height.
B. Switch to a (lower-gain) non-directional
antenna.
C. Increase transmitter output power at both
stations.
D. Move the antenna away from obstructions.
Visual LEVEL1.64
Lesson 16 Questions
3. Which of the following is true about a simplex
repeater?
A. The FCC rules do not permit unattended
operation of simplex repeaters.
B. They work best in the "cross band repeater"
mode.
C. They require the use of two radios.
D. Is the same as a "human repeater."
Visual LEVEL1.65
Lesson 16 Questions
4. Which of the following is NOT an appropriate
served agency assignment for an emcomm
volunteer?
A. Field damage assessment and reporting.
B. Driving a supply delivery vehicle.
C. Typing inventory lists and filing memos.
D. Gathering weather data and reporting
conditions.
Visual LEVEL1.66
Lesson 16 Questions
5. Which of the following is a good means of
dealing with stress during an emcomm event?
A. Take every comment personally.
B. Pay no attention to other team members; let
them handle their own problems.
C. To reduce personal stress, insist on working
more than your own shift.
D. Prioritize your actions - the most important
and time sensitive ones come first.
Visual LEVEL1.67
Lesson 16 References
 For information about ARRL Public Service
Communications, please see The Public Service
Communications Manual:
www.arrl.org/FandES/field/pscm/index.html
 For specific information on ARES, see the ARRL
ARES Field Resources Manual (.pdf file)
Visual LEVEL1.68
Lesson 17 - Personal Safety, Survival,
and Health Considerations
Visual LEVEL1.69
Home and Family First
Visual LEVEL1.70
Home and Family First
 Before leaving on an assignment, make all
necessary arrangements for the security, safety,
and general well being of your home and family.
 Family members, and perhaps friends or
neighbors, should know:
 Where you are going
 When you plan to return
 How to get a message to you in an emergency
Visual LEVEL1.71
Home and Family First
 If you live in the disaster area or in the potential path of a
storm
 Consider moving your family to a safe location before
beginning your volunteer duties
 Take whatever steps you can to protect your own property
from damage or looting
 Let a neighbor or even local police know where you are
going, when you plan to return, and how to reach you or
your family members in an emergency
Visual LEVEL1.72
Create Home & Family Checklist
 House






Board up windows if you are in a storm's path
Put lawn furniture and loose objects indoors if high
winds are likely
Move valuables to upper levels if flooding is possible
Heating fuel tanks should be filled
Drain pipes if below freezing temperatures and power
loss are possible
Shut off power and gas if practical and if structural
damage is possible
Visual LEVEL1.73
Create Home & Family Checklist
 Family

Safe place to stay if needed, preferably with friends
or relatives
 Reliable transportation, with fuel tank filled
 Adequate cash money for regular needs and
emergencies (not ATM or credit cards)
 House, auto, life, and health insurance information
to take along if evacuated
 Access to important legal documents such as wills,
property deeds, etc.
 Emergency food and water supply.
 AM/FM radio and extra batteries
Visual LEVEL1.74
Create Home & Family Checklist
 Family









Flashlight and extra batteries, bulbs
Generator, fuel and safe operating knowledge
Adequate supply of prescription medications on hand
List of emergency phone numbers
Pet supplies and arrangements (shelters will not take
pets)
List of people to call for assistance
Maps and emergency escape routes
A way to contact each other
A plan for reuniting later
Visual LEVEL1.75
Vehicle & Family Safety Checklist
 Warm clothes in trunk
 Familiarity with school and
daycare plans
 Chains in trunk
 Alternative shelter plans
 Full gas tank
 Alternative transportation
arrangements
 Sand/shovel in trunk
 Window ice scraper
 Identified snow routes
 Flares, flashlight in trunk
 Bus timetables
 Antifreeze
Visual LEVEL1.76
Should you leave at all?
 There are times when your family may need you as much
or more than your emcomm group
 If there is ever any doubt, your decision must be to stay
with your family
 You should discuss, and come to an agreement with your
spouse well before any disaster, in order to avoid any last
minute problems
 Alternatively, have your spouse get an Amateur Radio
license and accompany you on your deployment
Visual LEVEL1.77
You First -- The Mission Second
 You will need to continue to take care of yourself.

If you become over-tired, ill, or weak, you cannot do
your job properly.

If you do not take care of personal cleanliness, you
could become unpleasant to be around.

Whenever possible, each station should have at least
two operators on duty so that one can take a break for
sleep, food and personal hygiene.
• If that is not possible, work out a schedule with the
emcomm managers or your NCS to take periodic "offduty" breaks.
Visual LEVEL1.78
Safety - Everyone’s Responsibility
 Personal safety

Everyone is responsible for their own safety. Know your own limitations. Do not
undertake any activity for which you feel is unsafe or violates this policy
 Ask for help

Do not hesitate to ask for help and/or advice from others.
 Safety briefings

All personnel are required to attend and contribute to safety briefings
 Personal awareness

Everyone is responsible for reading and understanding this safety policy and
carrying out their duties in compliance with the policy guidelines
 Safety issues



Everyone is responsible for the safety of the operation.
If you see something that violates the provisions of the safety policy, you are
obligated to call it to the attention of the Safety Officer or the Incident Commander
In the event that the IC or the Safety Officer is not available, each individual is
authorized to halt operations which violate these guidelines.
Visual LEVEL1.79
General Safety Checklist
 A Safety Officer is assigned to all field operations.
 A contact list including local fire, police and security
is maintained by The Safety Officer.
 All field operations have a plan.
 All personnel know their job assignment and
understand the plan.
 Crew is adequate for the job; no less and no more
than is necessary.
 Crew with specific First Aid and CPR training is
identified by Safety Officer.
Visual LEVEL1.80
Know Your Routes!
http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/snowandice.htm
Visual LEVEL1.81
Food
 Most people need at least 2000 calories a day to function
well
 Experienced emcomm managers and served agency
personnel will usually be aware of this issue and take
steps to see that their volunteer's needs are met

High calorie and high protein snacks will help keep you
going
• But you will also need food that is more substantial

Bring along some freeze-dried camping food, a small
pot, and a camp stove with fuel, or some self-heating
military style "Meal, Ready to Eat" (MRE) packages
Visual LEVEL1.82
Water
 You will need at least two or three liters of water
each day, just for drinking, more for other
purposes
 Most disaster preparedness checklists suggest
at least one gallon per person, per day
 Many camping supply stores offer a range of
water filters and purification tablets that can help
make local water supplies safer
However, they all have limitations you should be aware of…
Visual LEVEL1.83
Water Filters
 Filters may or may not remove all potentially harmful
organisms or discoloration
 Those with smaller filter pores (.3 microns is a very tight
filter) will remove more foreign matter, but will also clog
more quickly
 Iodine-saturated filters will kill or remove most harmful
germs and bacteria, but are more expensive and impart
a faint taste of iodine to the water
 Most filters will remove Giardia cysts
 All water filters require care in their use to avoid crosscontamination of purified water with dirty water
Visual LEVEL1.84
Water Filters
Visual LEVEL1.85
Water Purification Tablets
 Purification tablets, such as Halazone, have
a limited shelf life that varies with the type,
and give the water an unpleasant taste
 Tablets will do nothing for particulate (dirt) or
discoloration in the water
 Be sure to read and understand the
information that comes with any water
purification device or tablet before
purchasing or using it
Visual LEVEL1.86
Water Purification with Bleach
 FDA says you can use plain Clorox brand laundry bleach
(no perfumes, etc)
 After filtering out any particulate by pouring it through
several layers of densely woven cloth, put sixteen drops of
Clorox in a gallon of water, mix well, and allow it to sit for
thirty minutes
 If it still smells slightly of chlorine, you can use it.
 If not, stir in sixteen more drops and wait another half
hour.
 If it still does not smell of chlorine, discard the water and
find a new supply
 It will not taste great, nor will the chlorine bleach kill cysts
like Giardia, but it may be enough
Visual LEVEL1.87
Water Purification Last Resort
 If you have no other means, boiling for at least
five minutes will kill any bacteria and other
organisms, but will not remove any particulate
matter or discoloration
 Boiling will leave water with a "flat" taste that can
be improved by pouring it back and forth between
two containers several times to reintroduce some
oxygen
Visual LEVEL1.88
Using a Solar Still to Get Water
Visual LEVEL1.89
Sleep
 Get at least six continuous
hours of sleep in every
twenty-four hour period
 Or four continuous hours
and several shorter naps
 Soft foam earplugs and a
black eye mask to ensure that
light and noise around you
are not a problem
Visual LEVEL1.90
Personal Hygiene
 Essentials:



Toothpaste and toothbrush
Comb
Deodorant
 If possible, bring



Bar of soap or waterless
hand cleaner
Small towel and washcloth
Few extra shirts
Visual LEVEL1.91
Safety in an Unsafe Situation
 Natural disasters can bring









Flying or falling debris
High or fast moving water
Fire
Explosions
Building collapse
Polluted water
Disease
Toxic chemicals
A variety of other dangers
You should always be aware of your surroundings
and the dangers they hold
Visual LEVEL1.92
Clothing
 Depending on the weather, your gear might include:





Hard hat
Rain gear
Warm non-cotton layers
Work gloves
Waterproof boots.
 Always bring several pairs of non-cotton socks and change
them often to keep your feet clean and dry.
 Create seasonal clothing lists suitable for your climate and
the types of disasters you might encounter.
Visual LEVEL1.93
Personal Safety Checklist
 Sturdy footwear is worn by all
active duty personnel.
 Safety glasses or goggles are
used when cutting wire, soldering
or working around machinery.
 Respirators, dust masks or
bandanas are available at fires,
floods, earthquakes
 OSHA approved hard-hats are
worn by all ground crew for tower
erection operations. NO
EXCEPTIONS! Climbing helmets
are worn during tower climbing
operations.
Visual LEVEL1.94
Avoid Dangerous Areas
 Industrial buildings or facilities may contain toxic




chemicals, which can be released in a disaster
 Hospitals
Dams can break,
Bridges can wash out
Buildings can collapse
Areas can become inaccessible due to flooding, landslides,
collapsed structures, advancing fires, or storm surges
If you can avoid being in harm's way,
you can also prevent yourself from becoming
part of the problem rather than part of the solution
Visual LEVEL1.95
If You Are Trapped or Isolated…
 Be prepared to help others
find or rescue you
 Let others know where
you are going if you must
travel anywhere, even
within a "safe" building
 Try not to travel alone in
dangerous conditions-bring a "buddy"
Visual LEVEL1.96
Carry Signaling Devices
Satellite Personal Tracker




SPOT sends your exact GPS coordinates
and selected messages over commercial
satellites to tell others of your location and
status
SPOT will acquire its exact coordinates from
the GPS network, and send that location
along with a distress message to a GEOS
International Emergency Response Center
every five minutes until cancelled
The Emergency Response Center notifies
the appropriate emergency responders
based on your location and personal
information – which may include local police,
highway patrol, the Coast Guard, our
country’s embassy or consulate, or other
emergency response or search and rescue
teams – as well as notifying your emergency
contact person(s) about the receipt of a
distress signal
Send and save your location and allow
contacts to track your progress using Google
Maps™.
Visual LEVEL1.97
Google Latitude
 With Google
Latitude:

See where your
friends are and what
they are up to
 Quickly contact them
with SMS, IM, or a
phone call
 Control what your
location is and who
gets to see it
Visual LEVEL1.98
From a mobile phone
Shelter
 In most cases, you will not need your own shelter
for operating or sleeping
 You may be able to stay or work in the
emergency operations center, evacuation
shelter, or even your own vehicle
 In some cases a tent, camp trailer, motor home,
or other suitable shelter may be necessary
Visual LEVEL1.99
Tents
 Pick a tent equipped to withstand the harshest
conditions you might encounter
 Rated for high winds
 Waterproof
 Full-coverage rain fly
 Waterproof bottom

Use a tarp, ground cloth or footprint to extend
the life of a tent's floor
 Resources:

www.rei.com
Visual LEVEL1.100
Medical Considerations
 Discuss any medical conditions with your physician ahead
of time
 Potentially interfere with your ability to do your job
 Diabetic

You will need to avoid going for long periods without
proper food or medication, and stress may affect your
blood sugar level
 Heart

May need to avoid stressful situations
Visual LEVEL1.101
Medical Considerations
 Have an adequate supply of appropriate
medications on hand
 Have a copy of any prescriptions
 Let your emcomm manager and any work
partners know of your condition so that they can
take appropriate actions if something goes wrong
Visual LEVEL1.102
Medical Considerations
 Keep a copy of any special
medical information and
emergency phone numbers
in your wallet at all times
 Wear any medical ID jewelry
you have
Visual LEVEL1.103
Protect Your Eyes and Sight
 If you wear eyeglasses or
contact lenses, bring at least
one spare pair
 Contact lenses


 If you have any doubts,
consult your eye doctor
ahead of time
 Bringing a copy of your lens
Bring more than enough
changes to avoid running
out
May want to switch to
glasses to avoid having to
deal with lens removal
and cleaning under field
conditions
prescription along may also
be a good idea
 Especially if you are likely
to be some distance from
home for a while
Visual LEVEL1.104
Protect Your Eyes and Sight
 Sunglasses



 Sunglasses that offer the
Fatigue
Possibly eye damage
Good quality UV blocking
sunglasses
 “Snow blindness"

Prolonged periods of
exposure where there is
snow/sand can cause the
retina to be burned
following are frequently
recommended:
 99-100% UV absorption
 Polycarbonate or CR-39
lens (lighter, more
comfortable than glass)
 5-10% visible light
transmittance
 Large lenses that fit close
to the face
 Wraparound or sideshielded to prevent
incidental light exposure
Visual LEVEL1.105
Sample Personal Survival & Comfort Needs Checklist
 Suitable size backpack or duffel






bag for clothing and personal
gear
Plastic storage tub for food,
cooking gear
Toilet kit -- soap, comb,
deodorant, shampoo,
toothbrush, toothpaste
Toilet paper in zipper-lock
freezer bag
Small towel and washcloth
Lip balm
Facial tissues
 Sunscreen
 Insect repellent
 Prescription medications (1





week supply)
Copies of medication and
eyeglass/contact lens
prescriptions
Spare eyeglasses or contact
lenses and supplies
Hand lotion for dry skin
Small first aid kit
Non-prescription medications,
including painkiller, antacids,
anti-diarrheal, etc.
Visual LEVEL1.106
Sample Personal Survival & Comfort Needs Checklist
 Extra basic clothing -- shirts,








socks, underwear
Gloves, for protection or warmth
Pocket flashlight
Folding pocket knife
Sleeping bag, closed-cell foam
pad or air mattress, pillow
Ear plugs (soft foam type in
sealed package)
Black eye mask
Outer clothing for season and
conditions (rain gear, parka, hat,
face mask, etc)
Hard hat










Reflective vest, hat
Travel alarm clock
Chemical light sticks
Police or signal whistle
Dust masks
Phone/email/address list for
family, friends, neighbors,
physician, pharmacy
Emergency contact/medical
information card in your wallet
Spare car and house keys
High energy or high protein
snacks
Food -- Freeze-dried or MREs
Visual LEVEL1.107
Sample Personal Survival & Comfort Needs Checklist
 Coffee, tea, drink mixes
 Plate or bowl, knife, fork and






spoon, insulated mug
Camp stove, small pot, fuel
and matches
Battery or other lantern
Water, in heavy plastic jugs
Water purification filter or
tablets
Magnetic compass, maps
Duct tape, parachute cord
Consider packing individual items
or kits in zipper-lock freezer bags
to keep the contents dry, clean,
and neat
Visual LEVEL1.108
Disaster Psychology
Visual LEVEL1.109
Possible Psychological Symptoms











Irritability, anger
Self-blame, blaming others
Isolation, withdrawal
Fear of recurrence
Feeling stunned, numb, or overwhelmed
Feeling helpless
Mood swings
Sadness, depression, grief
Denial
Concentration, memory problems
Relationship conflicts/marital discord
Visual LEVEL1.110
Possible Physiological Symptoms
 Loss of appetite
 Headaches, chest pain
 Diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea
 Hyperactivity
 Increase in alcohol or drug consumption
 Nightmares
 Inability to sleep
 Fatigue, low energy
Visual LEVEL1.111
Reducing Stress
 Get enough sleep.
 Exercise.
 Eat a balanced diet.
 Balance work, play, and rest.
 Allow yourself to receive as well as give.
Remember that your identity is broader than that
of a helper.
 Connect with others.
 Use spiritual resources.
Visual LEVEL1.112
Community Emergency Response Team
 Helps train people to be better
prepared to respond to
emergency situations in their
communities
 CERT members can give critical
support to first responders,
provide immediate assistance to
victims, and organize
spontaneous volunteers at a
disaster site
 CERT members can also help
with non-emergency projects
that help improve the safety of
the community
https://www.citizencorps.gov/cert/
Visual LEVEL1.113
Citizen Corps
 Citizen Corps asks
you to embrace the
personal responsibility
to be prepared; to get
training in first aid and
emergency skills; and
to volunteer to support
local emergency
responders, disaster
relief, and community
safety
Visual LEVEL1.114
National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD)
 Coalition of 49 major national


nonprofit and faith-based
organizations with committed
missions to domestic disasterrelated services
Mission is to foster more
effective service to people
affected by disasters
Formed after Hurricane Camille

In the aftermath of this disaster,
the voluntary organizations who
wanted to help victims realized
they didn't know very much about
each other, and certainly weren't
very well coordinated
Visual LEVEL1.115
C.E.R.T.

Unit 1: Disaster Preparedness

Unit 2: Fire Safety

Unit 3: Disaster Medical Operations—Part 1

Unit 4: Disaster Medical Operations—Part 2

Unit 5: Light Search and Rescue Operations

Unit 6: CERT Organization

Unit 7: Disaster Psychology

Unit 8: Terrorism and CERT

Unit 9: Course Review and Disaster
Simulation
Visual LEVEL1.116
C.E.R.T.
Visual LEVEL1.117
C.E.R.T. in Western Washington
 Seattle does not teach CERT

Seattle program is SNAP (Seattle Neighborhoods Actively
Prepare)
 Some other Western Washington communities have active
CERT programs. For example:
 Redmond
 Sammamish
 Federal Way
 Vashon Island
 Woodinville
 Issaquah
 Carnation / Duvall
 Snohomish County
 University of Washington
Visual LEVEL1.118
C.E.R.T. Communications
Treatment Areas
Immediate
Command Post
Delayed
Incident Site
Triage
Communications
Morgue
Transportation
Visual LEVEL1.119
C.E.R.T. Communications Example









FRS1
FRS2
FRS3
FRS4
FRS5
FRS6
FRS7
FRS8
FRS9- 14
Neighborhood Watch to Responders
CERT Team Leaders to Command Post
CERT Planning Section
CERT Logistics Section
CERT Admin Section
CERT Team Leader to Public Safety Responders
Safety Officer – Rapid Intervention Team
CERT Ops Inter-Team Primary Working Channel
CERT Intra-team working channels 500mw Max.
Use of the “Interstitial Simplex” Channels 1 through 7 with
transmitter output greater than 500mw requires GMRS license
and Part 95 Type Accepted radio such as the ICOM F21GM.
Visual LEVEL1.120
C.E.R.T. & Amateur Radio
 During a response, CERTs will have a variety of communications requirements
 Some of the communications required of all CERTs during emergencies include:




Intra-team communications, especially during search and rescue operations
Inter-team communications required to communicate logistics, request
assistance, and provide status
 Group Leaders to CERT Team Leader
 CERT Team Leader to first responders (at the Incident Command Post)
CERTs should consider two-way radios for:
 Intra-squad and inter-squad communications
• Each team should be assigned a different channel or frequency
• Section chiefs (Operations, Logistics, Planning, and Administration) should be
assigned a separate channel or frequency to communicate with each other and
with the Team Leader
 Communications with first responders
• A separate frequency should be assigned to these communications.
RACES or ARES organizations may wish to incorporate a radio operator to
communicate between the CERT Team Leader (Command Post) and the
Incident Command or Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
Visual LEVEL1.121
C.E.R.T. Communications Plan Example
Training Example CERT Communications Plan
Communications
Plan – ICS 205
1. Incident Name
2. Date / Time Prepared
3. Operational Period
Date / Time
4. Amateur Radio (ARS) and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)Channel Utilization
Radio Type/
Cache
Channel
ID
Function
Frequency
/ Tone
Info.
Remarks
VHF-2m
VHF-2m
VHF-2m
VHF-2m
VHF-2m
VHF-2m
VHF-2m
UHF-GMRS
Ham 1
Ham 2
Ham 3
Ham 4
Ham 5
Ham 6
Ham 7
REACT1
FRS1
147.495
147.525
146.565
146.595
146.415
146.79146.91462.675+
(141.3)
462.5625
Requires Amateur Radio Lic.
Requires Amateur Radio Lic.
Requires Amateur Radio Lic.
Requires Amateur Radio Lic.
Requires Amateur Radio Lic.
Requires Amateur Radio Lic.
Requires Amateur Radio Lic.
Requires GMRS Lic.
UHF-GMRS
UHF-GMRS
UHF-GMRS
UHF-GMRS
UHF-GMRS
UHF-GMRS
UHF-GMRS
UHF- FRS
FRS2
FRS3
FRS4
FRS5
FRS6
FRS7
FRS 8
HAM Radio - NE Sector
HAM Radio - NW Sector
HAM Radio - SW Sector
HAM Radio -SE Sector
Ham Radio Mutual Aid
Fairfax Ham Repeater
Tysons Ham Repeater
NoVA REACT
GMRS Repeater
Neighborhood Watch
To Responders
Team Leaders to Command
CERT Planning
CERT Logistics
CERT Admin
Public Safety Coordination
Safety Officer-EMERGENCY
Inter-Team Coordination
462.5875
462.6125
462.6375
462.6625
462.6825
462.7125
467.5625
*Max 5w w/GMRS Lic.
*Max 5w w/GMRS Lic.
*Max 5w w/GMRS Lic.
*Max 5w w/GMRS Lic.
*Max 5w w/GMRS Lic.
*Max 5w w/GMRS Lic.
FRS only 500mw
UHF – FRS
UHF – FRS
UHF – FRS
UHF – FRS
UHF- FRS
UHF - FRS
FRS 9
FRS10
FRS 11
FRS12
FRS 13
FRS 14
CERT Operations
CERT Operations
CERT Operations
CERT Operations
CERT Operations
CERT Operations
467.5875
467.6125
467.6375
467.6625
467.6875
467.7125
*Max 5w w/GMRS Lic.
RIT
No GMRS
No GMRS
No GMRS
No GMRS
No GMRS
No GMRS
No GMRS
FRS only 500mw
FRS only 500mw
FRS only 500mw
FRS only 500mw
FRS only 500mw
FRS only 500mw
*Use of the GMRS interstitial simplex channels at 5 watts requires a GMRS license and an
FCC Part 95 Type Accepted Radio. ICOM F21GM is suggested for this purpose.
5. Prepared by ( Communications Unit Leader, (COML) Unit Leader Type III)
Name____________________________________ FCC Call sign____________
Visual LEVEL1.122
C.E.R.T. Logs
FAIRFAX COUNTY CERT
COMMUNICATIONS LOG
INCIDENT #
FOR OPERATIONAL PERIOD #
TASK NAME:
OPERATOR NAME OR CALLSIGN:
DATE PREPARED:
TIME PREPARED:
TACTICAL I.D.
LOG ALL MESSAGES, ASSIGNMENTS, SITUATION REPORTS AND RESOURCE REQUESTS
STATION I.D.
TIME
FROM
PAGE __ OF __
TO
SUBJECT OR TASK:
ASSIGNED TO:
ICS 309 REV 01OCT2007 de KE4SKY
Visual LEVEL1.123
Lesson 17 Activities
1. Prepare a disaster preparedness checklist
specifically for your home and family.
2. Prepare a personal-needs checklist for yourself.
3. What are two major disaster threats in your
area? For each threat, list five actions you would
take as a precaution to protect your home and
family.
Visual LEVEL1.124
Lesson 17 Questions
1. Which of the following statements concerning
water purification is FALSE?
A. Boiling water for a full 5 minutes will kill most
harmful bacteria.
B. Boiling water to purify it can leave it with a flat
taste.
C. Filters may or may not remove harmful
bacteria.
D. Purification tablets will remove bacteria and
particulate matter (dirt).
Visual LEVEL1.125
Lesson 17 Questions
2. Which of the following is true about using chlorine to
purify water?
A. It is best to use four to six drops of chlorine per gallon
of water.
B. Adding the proper amount of chlorine to water will
improve the taste.
C. Adding the proper amount of chlorine to water will kill
cysts like Giardia.
D. It is best to use 16 drops of plain chlorine per gallon of
water.
Note: Answer D in the book has an incorrect answer
of “two to four drops” instead of “16 drops”. If this
question is on the test, it might have the same typo.
Visual LEVEL1.126
Lesson 17 Questions
3. Which of the following is true about the personal
gear you bring to a long-term incident?
A. Include several pairs of warm cotton socks.
B. Lightweight summer clothing is all you will
ever need.
C. Keep spare eyeglasses or safety glasses/
goggles in a hard-shell, felt-lined storage
case.
D. As a volunteer communicator, you will need
to bring specialized protective clothing.
Visual LEVEL1.127
Lesson 17 Questions
4. Many disaster assignments are in unsafe places.
Which of the following is true about such locations?
A. Always plan an escape route from buildings and
hazardous areas.
B. Always plan more than one escape route from
buildings and hazardous area.
C. The only dangers that you need be concerned
with in any location are fire, flood, and falling
debris.
D. Dams, bridges and buildings can generally be
thought of as "safe zones."
Visual LEVEL1.128
Lesson 17 Questions
5. Which of the following statements about safety and
survival is true?
A. The mission takes priority over everything else.
B. A person requires at least four gallons of water
per day just for drinking.
C. If caffeine keeps you awake, stop drinking
caffeinated beverages at least ten minutes before
going to bed.
D. Your personal safety and well-being are a higher
priority than the mission.
Note: The book indicates that Answer B is the correct
answer. However, we believe that Answer D is the
more appropriate response.
Visual LEVEL1.129
Lesson 17 Questions
6. Which of the following best defines an MRE
package?
A. Mainly Radio Equipment.
B. Mostly Random Equipment.
C. Meals, Ready to Eat.
D. Meals, Rarely Eaten.
Visual LEVEL1.130
Lesson 17 References
 FEMA Disaster Safety Information: http://www.fema.gov
 FEMA Disaster Preparedness for kids: http://www.fema.gov/kids/
 American Red Cross -- Disaster Safety:






http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/keepsafe/
Food: http://www.fcs.uga.edu/pubs/current/FDNS-E-34-CS.html
Water:
http://www.bae.ncsu.edu/programs/extension/publicat/wqwm/emergwatersu
ppl.html
North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service – food safety & disaster
recovery: http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/foodsci/agentinfo/hot/natdis.html
Institute for Home and Business Safety: http://www.ibhs.org/
Univ. of Florida -- Disaster safety tips:
http://www.agen.ufl.edu/~foodsaf/dh039.html
Virginia Tech -- Farm preparedness:
http://www.ext.vt.edu/news/periodicals/livestock/aps-98_07/aps-937.html
Visual LEVEL1.131
Lesson 18 - Alternate Communication
Methods
Visual LEVEL1.132
Alternate Communications
 Amateur radio may not always be the only or best radio service for the
job

There are dire situations in which individuals are forced to summon
help by any means available

Occasionally, we find that the tasks within a disaster exceed the
limits of the manpower provided by the amateur community

Sometimes it is better to hand an official a radio he can use to stay
in contact with the ARES team on site, and not saddle him or her
with a ham radio “shadow.”
• Particularly true for officials who must regularly deal with sensitive
issues

Other voluntary agencies may use these radio services in their own
operations
Legal Considerations…
Visual LEVEL1.133
Licenses
 Some radio services require licenses, and others
do not
 In a true emergency as defined by the FCC,
this may not be a problem

 FCC rules give everyone special permission to
use "any means necessary" to communicate in
order to protect life and property
 But only when no other normal means of
communication is possible
Visual LEVEL1.134
Licenses
 If your group is planning to use licensed radios,
obtain your license well before any emergency
and keep it current
 If you own a radio, but no license, a judge
could claim pre-meditation if you use it and
disturb licensed users
Visual LEVEL1.135
Can I Modify My Radio?
 NO -- you cannot modify your radio and call for help on the
local police frequency the next time you see a car crash on
the highway
 Law enforcement agencies are not bound by the FCC’s
rules.
 Hams who have called for "help" on police frequencies
have been convicted of "interfering with a police agency"
under state and local laws, even though the FCC had
taken no enforcement action.
Visual LEVEL1.136
Modified Amateur Radios
 Easy to modify many VHF and UHF Amateur
radios for operation in nearby public service and
business bands
 Not legal to do so for regular "emergency" use
 Radios must be "Type Accepted" by the FCC

Amateur radios are not
Visual LEVEL1.137
Citizens' Band (CB) Radio
 No licensing is required, and tactical or self-assigned
identifiers are acceptable

A recommended method promoted by the FCC is the
letter "K,” followed by the user's first and last initials,
followed by your zip code
• “KBD98112”

If you had a valid Class D License before the mid
1980s, you may continue to use your old CB call sign
DO NOT USE YOUR AMATEUR CALL SIGN
Visual LEVEL1.138
CB Technical Information
 11-meter band
 Effective range averages
 40 designated channels from
26.965 to 27.405 MHz
 Maximum output power of four
watts
 SSB can significantly increase
 Amplitude modulation (AM)
range
 Channel 9 is reserved for
 Single side band (SSB)
 FCC rules permit
between two and eight miles
(mobile-mobile)
 Depending on antennas,
terrain and propagation up
to 25 miles (base-mobile)
emergency and motorist
assistance traffic only
communication to a maximum of
250 km (155.3 miles)
Visual LEVEL1.139
Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS)
 Personal and business
 Bandwidth on the first three
operation
frequencies is limited to 11.25
kHz, and 20 kHz for the last two
 Primarily intended for portable
operation
 Frequency stability must be at
least 5 ppm
 Maximum power of two watts
 MURS frequencies:





151.820
151.880
151.940
154.570
154.600
 Antenna height is limited to 60
feet above ground
 No licenses are issued for this
service
Visual LEVEL1.140
Family Radio Service (FRS)
 Designed for short-range personal communications
 Good news

Almost everyone owns one or more of these handy
radios
 Bad news

Channels in some areas are crowded and
undisciplined, making them less useful for emergency
communications
Visual LEVEL1.141
FRS Technical Information
 14 available UHF channels
 8 different CTCSS codes to limit
background chatter and noise
 Output power is from 100 to 500
mw
 REACT recommends the use of
FRS channel 1 (462.5625 MHz)
with no CTCSS tone as an
emergency calling channel
 First 7 FRS channels are shared
with the General Mobile Radio
Service (GMRS)
 Chances of distress call
being heard on either
service is greatly increased
on these seven common
channels
 Many FRS radio are offered as
combination FRS/GMRS radios
with up to two watts output on
the GMRS channels
 License required
Visual LEVEL1.142
General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)
 15 UHF frequencies
 There is no frequency coordination
between 462.5625 and
462.7250 MHz
 Eight are paired with
matching repeater
inputs five MHz higher
 7 “interstitial” channels
are shared with FRS
 Power is limited to 50
watts
• Except on
“interstitial”
channels, 5 watts

Users must cooperate locally to
effectively use channels
 CTCSS codes are the same as for FRS
 FM voice operation is permitted

Digital modes and phone patches
are not
 462.675 MHz is recognized for
emergency and travel information use
 Monitored by many REACT teams
nationwide
Visual LEVEL1.143
GMRS
 GMRS requires a license
 Many “FRS” radios include “GMRS”

You should have a license for
these radios!
 If you operate a radio under the rules
that apply to GMRS, you must have a
GMRS license.
 GMRS radios generally transmit at
higher power levels (1 to 5 watts is
typical) and may have detachable
antennas.
 The current fee for a new GMRS
license is $80.
The manual that comes
with the radio, or the label placed
on it by the manufacturer,
should indicate the service the
unit is certified for.
http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/index.htm?job=service_home&id=general_mobile
Visual LEVEL1.144
Public Safety Radio
 There are instances where the use of police and fire radio
frequencies is possible
 Agency itself might allow and train you for such use
 Individual officer may ask you to use his radio to call for
help when he cannot
 Keep your transmissions short and to the point
 Do not tie up the channel with long explanations, and
cease transmitting if they tell you to
Visual LEVEL1.145
Cellular and PCS Phones
 In a widespread disaster situation, these phone systems
can quickly become overloaded
 A message is too sensitive to send via any two-way radio,
try your cell phone
 Cellular and PCS phone transmissions, especially
digital, are considerably more secure
 In addition, it is possible to send low-speed data or fax
transmissions over the cellular network
Visual LEVEL1.146
Marine Radio
 FM marine radios operate on internationally allocated channels
in the 160 MHz band
 HF SSB radios operate on a variety of ITU channels between 2
and 30 MHz
 FM stations for vessels in US waters do not require a license
 Operation on the HF channels does require a license
 Channel 16 – Distress Channel

If you hear a vessel in distress whose calls are going
unanswered by the Coast Guard, you may legally answer
them from an unlicensed land-based station under the FCC’s
“emergency communications” rules
Visual LEVEL1.147
Aviation Radio
Visual LEVEL1.148
Aviation Radio
 AM radios operating in the 108-136 MHz band

FCC licenses are required for all aircraft stations
operating internationally, but not within the US
 Emergency locator transmitters (ELTs)

Automatic devices that transmit a distress signal on
121.5 (civilian distress channel) and 243.0 MHz
(military counterpart)
 Also used for marine Emergency Position Indicating
Radio Beacons (EPIRB) and the new land-based
Personal Radio Beacons (PRB)
Visual LEVEL1.149
Aviation Radio
 The United States airspace is
divided into 21 centers
 Each center is divided into sectors
 Also within each center are portions
of airspace, about 50 miles (80.5
km) in diameter, called TRACON
(Terminal Radar Approach
CONtrol) airspaces
 Within each TRACON airspace are
a number of airports, each of which
has its own airspace with a 5-mile
(8-km) radius
Visual LEVEL1.150
Aviation Radio
 SEATTLE GROUND: 118.35 WEST 121.7 EAST
 SEATTLE TOWER: 119.9 EAST 120.95 WEST
 SEATTLE APPROACH:









119.2(076-160 RY 16)
119.2(341-075)
120.1(199-300)
120.4(301-340 RY 34)
125.6 ARRIVAL WEST
125.9(076-160 RWY 34)
125.9(301-340 RWY 16)
126.5(161-198)
SEATTLE DEPARTURE:








119.2(076-160 RY 16)
119.2(341-075)
120.1(199-300)
120.4(301-340 RY 34)
125.6 ARRIVAL WEST
125.9(076-160 RWY 34)
125.9(301-340 RWY 16)
126.5(161-198)
http://www.airnav.com/airport/KSEA
Visual LEVEL1.151
Aviation Radio
 BOEING TOWER:


118.3(309-127)
120.6(128-308)
Visual LEVEL1.152
EPIRBs and PRBs
 "406" EPIRBs operate on the 406 MHz frequency
This is the EPIRB which takes the “search” out of
search and rescue
 GPIRBs (Global Position Indicating Radio Beacon)
combine the latest in GPS and 406MHz EPIRB
(Electronic Position Indicating Radio Beacon)
technology
• Built in GPS determines and broadcasts its own location

 By international agreement, the original 121.5 MHz (civil)
and 243 MHz (military) beacons are no longer be sensed
by satellites starting in 2009
Visual LEVEL1.153
Landlines
 If they are still functioning, use the
telephone and fax whenever the
message might be too sensitive for radio
 Fax is also useful for sending long lists,
and where accuracy is critical
 Do not tie up a radio frequency sending
a long list of supplies if a working fax or
phone is available
Visual LEVEL1.154
Couriers
 Sensitive or very lengthy
message
 Fax and phone lines
are out of service
 Hand delivery might be
the best choice if travel is
possible
Acting as a courier does not
eliminate the use of radio,
since couriers need to be
dispatched from place to place
Visual LEVEL1.155
Sample Emergency Network
Visual LEVEL1.156
And Don’t Forget
 Internet
 Email
 WebEOC
 Packet
Visual LEVEL1.157
Scenario 18-1
 You are driving on an Interstate highway in a rural
area and you come upon an accident with a
severely injured driver. You have a cell phone
and a modified Amateur Radio which covers the
local Fire Department frequencies.
 Question
 When
is it legal to summon for help on the Fire
Department frequency?
Visual LEVEL1.158
Scenario 18-2
 You are the on duty NCS Operator and you have
been given an ICS-213 form with a page long
handwritten message that needs to be sent to a
local shelter. Operational in the EOC are
Amateur Radio equipment, landline phones,
facsimile machines, and PCs with email
connectivity.
 What do you do?
Visual LEVEL1.159
Scenario 18-3
 You are the Amateur Radio Operator on duty at
the Hospital. An EMT in the field needs additional
instructions from a physician at the hospital. The
physician does not have an Amateur Radio
license.
 What do you do?
Visual LEVEL1.160
Lesson 18 Activity
 Develop a list of at least three potential uses for
non-ham radios in public service or emergency
communication efforts in your area. You may
base this on past or potential events. Specify
which alternate radio system(s) best meets the
need of each situation on your list and explain
why.
Visual LEVEL1.161
Lesson 18 Questions
1. Which can you NOT use to identify your
transmissions on Citizens' Band radio?
A. Your Amateur call, if you were licensed when
11-meters was an Amateur allocation.
B. With your old Class D call sign, if you had
one.
C. A self-assigned identifier.
D. A tactical call sign.
Visual LEVEL1.162
Lesson 18 Questions
2. Which is the best course of action for
summoning help via CB?
A. Use channel 1, since the lowest frequency
has the longest ground-wave signal.
B. Call at regular intervals on Channels 9 and 19
for a response.
C. Call only on channel 9, since it is designated
for assistance and emergencies.
D. Say "Break-Break" or "MAYDAY" on any
channel.
Visual LEVEL1.163
Lesson 18 Questions
3. Which is NOT an advantage of using Family
Radio Service (FRS) systems?
A. They are readily available at low cost.
B. Operation of FRS radios is simple and
requires little training.
C. There is no requirement for licensing to use
FRS.
D. Low transmitter power
Visual LEVEL1.164
Lesson 18 Questions
4. Who may currently license a GMRS system with
the FCC?
A. A privately owned business, for routine
communications.
B. An individual, for family and personal use.
C. A charitable institution, for benevolent
purposes.
D. A local repeater club.
Visual LEVEL1.165
Lesson 18 Questions
5. Which is NOT true of the MURS?
A.
B.
C.
D.
A station license is not required.
Power output is limited to 2 watts
Radios operate in the VHF band
Data emissions are permitted
Visual LEVEL1.166
Lesson 18 References
 Multiple Use Radio Service (MURS) rules




http://www.provide.net/~prsg/murshome.htm
Family Radio Service rules
http://www.provide.net/~prsg/frs-home.html
General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) rules
http://www.provide.net/~prsg/part95ae.htm
Citizen's Band (CB) rules www.reactintl.org/rules-cb.htm
For a detailed discussion of the FCC Rules on Amateur
Radio emergency communication, please see the ARRL
FCC Rule Book, Chapter 5.
Visual LEVEL1.167
Visual LEVEL1.168
Lesson 19 - What to Expect in LargeScale Disasters
Visual LEVEL1.169
Onset: Critical Communication Requirements in a Disaster
 Huge increase in the volume of traffic on public-safety radio
channels, accompanied by prolonged waiting periods to gain
access
 Equipment outages occur at key locations
 Messages are not handled in order of priority
 Urgent messages are often lost
 Need arises for agencies to communicate with one another


Incompatible radio systems
Unfamiliar or unattainable frequencies, names, terms, and
procedures
Visual LEVEL1.170
Onset: Critical Communication Requirements in a Disaster
 Large-scale situation

Contact locations at distances beyond the range of a
given radio or system (50 to 350 miles or more)
 Message reply delays are experienced

Deferred decisions on crucial matters
 Message duplication
 Confusion
 Messages with widely differing priorities
Visual LEVEL1.171
Different modes of communication
 Different modes of communication are required in addition
to voice
 Volume data in printed form data modes, high-speed
packet, and facsimile
 Morse code or PSK31 under difficult reception
conditions
 Encoded data for extreme privacy
 Television--mobile, portable, aeronautical, and marine
 Telephone interconnections from/to radio systems
Visual LEVEL1.172
Operational Problems Arise
 High-volume traffic circuits with no supply of message forms
 Using the only printed forms available that were designed for a
different, unrelated agency or function
 Attempting to decipher scribbling from untrained message
writers; using scribes who cannot understand radio parlance or
read through QRM
 Becoming inundated with traffic volume so heavy it results in
confusion over which messages are to be sent, which were sent,
which have been received for delivery, and which have been
received to be filed for ready reference.
Visual LEVEL1.173
What Happens in the First 72 Hours?
 Takes time to overcome the obstacles to placing fully
activated mutual aid resources into operation
 Greatest concentration of relief effort

Generally found in the incorporated cities served by
agencies with paid professionals
• Assuming their equipment, facilities and personnel
remain operable
 Suburbs and isolated areas of a county

Suffer from remoteness from fire departments, public
works, law enforcement and the services of all other
agencies
Visual LEVEL1.174
What Happens in the First 72 Hours?
 The public is often isolated, unable to call for help or determine
the nature and extent of the disaster
 Should they make plans to:





"Wait it out."
Prepare to evacuate.
Actually evacuate with some possessions to a safe place
Obtain physical aid for an impending catastrophe
Offer aid to a relative, friend or neighbor
 Lack of information results in further attempted use of the
telephone when the system is already saturated
Visual LEVEL1.175
What Happens in the First 72 Hours?
 The opportunity to call for help is often
unavailable to most citizens during the first 72
hours
http://www.3days3ways.org
Visual LEVEL1.176
What Happens in the First 72 Hours?
 Distorted public perceptions develop through
misinformation
 Broadcast stations (those still on the air) initially
disseminate rumors in the absence of factual information
 People walk aimlessly seeking a route to family and friends
 Many, fearful of looting, remain in hazardous buildings, or
return, as do shopkeepers, to salvage valuables
 As darkness falls, rumors of looting are generated some
true
Visual LEVEL1.177
What Happens in the First 72 Hours?
 Word circulates about shelter locations
 Some displaced persons stay at homes of friends, relatives
or strangers
 Others are housed at public shelters into the fourth day,
still searching for family members elsewhere, and
without communication
 Opportunity to notify concerned distant relatives is not
afforded except via Amateur Radio and the American Red
Cross
Visual LEVEL1.178
What Happens in the First 72 Hours?
 Later, often too late, information trickles in about problem
areas or cases that have been overlooked due to the lack
of communication
 Some potential evacuees are overlooked
 Survival instincts prevail
 Inter-agency communication is poor to non-existent
 At the end of 72 hours, the disaster area remains in virtual
isolation except for helicopter service for known critical
cases and official use
Visual LEVEL1.179
What Happens in the First 72 Hours?
 Amateur Radio operators from neighboring
counties and states offer to help but are often
unable to cross the roadblocks established to limit
access by sightseers and potential looters
 Disorganized local volunteers often lack essential
skills and orientation
 Costly mistakes are made and systems bog down
Visual LEVEL1.180
What Happens in the First 72 Hours?
 The dead pose a serious health problem.
 Stress rises among the citizenry.
 Little overall assessment emerges in the first 72 hours
about available emergency resources and relief supplies.
 Shortages are apparent and growing
 Travel continues to be difficult and slow
 Relief supplies trickle in to uncertain storage locations
Visual LEVEL1.181
What Happens in the First 72 Hours?
 Food and water shortages have become critical
 Normal water sources may have been cut off or
contaminated
 Relief efforts are mounted when someone takes charge,
makes a decision, and directs the efforts of others.
 The command and control process of directing requires
communication - the ingredient in short supply in all
disasters
Visual LEVEL1.182
What Happens in the First 72 Hours?
 At critiques following a disaster, as always, the
cry is heard: "Next time we must be better
prepared!"
By the way, this lesson was written prior to Katrina…
What did we learn from the past???
Visual LEVEL1.183
What About After the Disaster?
Visual LEVEL1.184
Critical Incident Stress Debriefing
 CISS is the adverse psychological and/or physiological reaction
to a stressful incident
 Search and Rescue personnel are particularly susceptible to
this due to the very nature of their job
 Six phases:







Introduction and a description
Review of the factual material
Sharing of initial thoughts/feelings
Sharing of emotional reactions to the incident
Instruction about normal stress reactions
Review of the symptoms
Closing and further needs assessment
Visual LEVEL1.185
Traumatic Crisis
An event in which people experience or witness:
 Actual or potential death or injury to self or others.
 Serious injury.
 Destruction of homes, neighborhood, or valued
possessions.
 Loss of contact with family/close relationships.
Visual LEVEL1.186
Traumatic Stress
Traumatic stress may affect:
 Cognitive functioning.
 Physical health.
 Interpersonal reactions.
Visual LEVEL1.187
Mediating Factors
 Prior experience with a similar event
 The intensity of the disruption in the survivors’
lives
 Individual feelings that there is no escape, which
sets the stage for panic
 The emotional strength of the individual
 The length of time that has elapsed between the
event occurrence and the present
Visual LEVEL1.188
Stabilizing Individual
 Assess the survivors for injury and shock.
 Get uninjured people involved in helping.
 Provide support by:
 Listening.
 Empathizing.
 Help survivors connect with natural support
systems.
Visual LEVEL1.189
Avoid Saying . . .
 “I understand.”
 “Don’t feel bad.”
 “You’re strong/You’ll get through this.”
 “Don’t cry.”
 “It’s God’s will.”
 “It could be worse” or “At least you still have . . .”
Visual LEVEL1.190
Lesson 19 Activity
 Make a list of the natural disasters most likely to
occur in your home area, and order them from
most to least likely. For the most likely disaster on
your list, discuss the preparations made by local
emergency communication groups to deal with a
related communication emergency.
Visual LEVEL1.191
Lesson 19 Questions
1. What is the first thing that happens after a disaster has
occurred?
A. The Federal Emergency Management Agency arrives
on the scene.
B. The Red Cross and Salvation Army arrive with food
and bedding for victims.
C. Massive increase in the volume of traffic on publicsafety radio channels.
D. The press provides up to date and accurate
information to the public.
Visual LEVEL1.192
Lesson 19 Questions
2. Which of the following statements is NOT true of
interagency communication?
A. Many agencies use incompatible radio
systems.
B. Many agencies are reluctant to use each
other's radio system.
C. Agencies all use the same radio systems and
frequencies.
D. Amateur Radio can be used to link agencies.
Visual LEVEL1.193
Lesson 19 Questions
3. In the first 72 hours of a disaster situation, where
is the greatest concentration of relief effort to be
found?
A. Urban areas.
B. Suburban areas.
C. Rural areas.
D. Outside the affected area.
Visual LEVEL1.194
Lesson 19 Questions
4. Which organization handles health and welfare
messages on behalf of the victims?
A. ARES.
B. RACES.
C. National Weather Service.
D. American Red Cross.
Visual LEVEL1.195
Lesson 19 Questions
5. What is the usual situation in a disaster during
the initial 72 hours?
A. The disaster area remains in virtual isolation.
B. The disaster is over and everybody can go
home.
C. A few victims still need assistance.
D. Communication systems are back to normal.
Visual LEVEL1.196
Lesson 19 References
 ARRL Public Service Communications Manual
http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/pscm/index.html
 For more information on the FCC Rules, please see The ARRL's FCC
Rule Book, chapter 5 on providing emergency communications.
 For additional general information, please see The ARRL Operating
Manual, chapter on emergency communications. See also the ARRL
ARES Field Resources Manual.
 For local information, or to learn more about ARES and NTS net
operation in your area, contact your Section Manager (SM)
(http://www.arrl.org/field/org/smlist.html.), your Section Emergency
Coordinator (SEC) or District Emergency Coordinator (DEC). See also
The ARRL Net Directory for a list of ARES and NTS nets operating in
your area.
Visual LEVEL1.197
Lesson 20 - Hazardous Materials
Awareness
Visual LEVEL1.198
Hazardous Materials
 HazMat
 Any
substances or materials, which if released
in an uncontrolled manner (e.g., spilled), can
be harmful to people, animals, crops, water
systems, or other elements of the environment
 Amateur radio operators may encounter HazMat
incidents, or to assist with emergency
communications in such incidents
Visual LEVEL1.199
Hazardous Materials . . .
 Corrode other materials
 Explode or are easily ignited
 React strongly with water
 Are unstable when exposed to heat or shock
 Are toxic to humans, animals, or the environment
Visual LEVEL1.200
HazMat
 Explosives
 Poisonous and infectious
substances
 Gases
 Flammable and
combustible liquids
 Radioactive materials
 Corrosives
 Flammable solids or
substances
Visual LEVEL1.201
Sources of Hazardous Materials
 Chemical plants
 Service stations
 Hospitals
 Hazardous materials waste sites
 Transport vehicles
Visual LEVEL1.202
Hazardous Materials Incident Preparedness
 Find out what could happen.
 Address the hazards in your emergency plan.
 Practice and maintain your plan.
 Learn the warning and information system for
your community.
Visual LEVEL1.203
During a Hazardous Materials Incident
 Call for help immediately and let the experts handle the situation.
 Stay away from the incident site.
 If outside, stay upstream, uphill, and upwind.

Do NOT be tempted to get just a little closer so that you can
read placards or other items
 If in a motor vehicle, stop and find shelter.
 If asked to evacuate, do so immediately.
 If requested, stay indoors—shelter in place.
Visual LEVEL1.204
During a Hazardous Materials Incident
 If you are able to see from a safe position, look
for:
 The four-digit number on a placard or orange
panel
 The four-digit number preceded by the initials
UN/NA on a shipping paper, package or drum
 The name of the material on the shipping
papers, placard, or package
Visual LEVEL1.205
Identifying Hazardous Materials in Transit
Symbol
Symbol
Chemical
Number
Name
Chemical Class
Chemical Class
Visual LEVEL1.206
Identifying Hazardous Materials in Transit
Orange
Red &
White
Blue
Red
White
Yellow
White
Visual LEVEL1.207
Red
Red &
White
Yellow &
White
Black &
White
Identifying Stored Hazardous Materials
Visual LEVEL1.208
Reporting a HazMat Incident
 When reporting a HazMat incident, include the following information:

Identify yourself.

Give your current location and the location of the incident, i.e. street
address or cross streets, road and mile marker, distance from nearest
town, etc.

Briefly describe what you see (from a distance), i.e. liquid spill, gaseous
cloud, etc, and any placard numbers or other information you can safely
see.

If a gaseous cloud or liquid spill exists, give the direction the
contaminant is flowing or moving. Give any pertinent weather or other
information you can observe from a safe distance that might help the
experts in responding to the incident. Be concise.
Visual LEVEL1.209
Reporting a HazMat Incident
http://phmsa.dot.gov/hazm
at/library/erg
Visual LEVEL1.210
Lesson 20 Activities
 Describe how you would handle the following
situation:
 You are traveling through a rural area right
behind a tornado, reporting damage and
casualties to the local fire and police agencies
as you go. Cresting a hill, you see a tank trailer
overturned on the road ahead. No one else is
around. A variable wind is blowing the leaking
fumes in several directions unpredictably. You
cannot see the placards on the truck from
where you are.
Visual LEVEL1.211
Lesson 20 Questions
1. Which of the following BEST describes where
you should be located when in the vicinity of a
HazMat incident?
A. Far away enough to ensure your safety.
B. Downhill and downwind.
C. Close enough to read the numbers on any
placards with your naked eyes.
D. Alongside emergency responders wearing
exposure suits.
Visual LEVEL1.212
Lesson 20 Questions
2. Which federal agency is responsible for warning
the public about hazardous materials containers
and shippers?
A. Federal Emergency Management Agency.
B. Federal Response Plan.
C. National Communications System.
D. Department of Transportation.
Visual LEVEL1.213
Lesson 20 Questions
3. Before transmitting in the area of a HazMat
incident what should you always do?
A. First identify the agents by reading the
placard or container labels.
B. Be far enough away so that no vapors or
fumes are present.
C. Wait to report the incident until police or fire
officials have arrived.
D. Take action to stop or contain any agents that
might be leaking.
Visual LEVEL1.214
Lesson 20 Questions
4. On the sides of transporting vehicles how are
different classes of hazardous materials
identified?
A. Placards.
B. Four-digit numbers.
C. Warning labels and/or icons.
D. All of the answers are correct.
Visual LEVEL1.215
Lesson 20 Questions
4. Which information will give responding
authorities the most useful information?
A. Placard color
B. Icon types
C. Warning labels
D. Four-digit numbers
NOTE: This is the old Question #4 from the
previous version of the Level 1 book. This
question might still be on some of the tests.
Visual LEVEL1.216
Lesson 20 Questions
5. Gasoline tankers filling the neighborhood gas
station's underground tanks are identified with a
placard bearing which of the following?
A. 1203
B. 1993
C. 2003
D. 2706
Visual LEVEL1.217
Lesson 20 References
 Details of the placards and emergency response procedures can be
found in the comprehensive DOT Emergency Response Guidebook,
copies of which may be available for your review at your local
Emergency Management, police, sheriff or fire department. A copy is
also available online at: http://hazmat.dot.gov/gydebook.htm
 You may also consult your Local Emergency Planning Committee
(LEPC) or State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) concerning
what role Amateur Radio might have in your local plan. For more
information about hazardous materials in general, contact FEMA,
Technological Hazards Division, Federal Center Plaza, 500 C St., SW,
Washington, DC, 20472 (202) 646-2861.
 Additional related links:


http://www.people.memphis.edu/~ehas/nfpa.htm
http://www.sru.edu/depts/artsci/chem/CHM_MSDS.htm
Visual LEVEL1.218
Lesson 21 - Marine Communications
Visual LEVEL1.219
Definitions
 Vessel: A general term for all craft capable of floating on
water and larger than a rowboat.
 Ship: A general term for larger seagoing vessels of every
kind.
 Boat: A term applied to smaller craft propelled by oars,
sails or engines.
 Marine: An adjective meaning related to or connected with
the sea.
Visual LEVEL1.220
Type of Marine Radio
 VHF-FM, (156 to 162 MHz)

Effective range from ship to ship of 10 to 15 miles, and
ship to shore of 20-30 miles
 Vessels that routinely travel outside this distance generally
have MW/HF-SSB, satellite communications or both
 CW communication on MW/HF is no longer used
 No license is currently required for pleasure boats
operating on the FM channels in US territorial waters
Visual LEVEL1.221
VHF-FM
 FCC limits VHF-FM marine radios to a maximum of 25
watts
 Radios are also required to be capable of 1-watt
operation for short range and in-harbor use
 VHF and MW/HF marine radio use is restricted to vessels
on the water
 The use of portables or mobiles to communicate with
crew on shore is not allowed
 Marinas, marine towing services, and fish canneries
may be licensed for limited base operations on certain
channels
Visual LEVEL1.222
Channel Selection
 Marine FM frequencies have been assigned
channel numbers
 Channel 16 has been designated worldwide as
a distress and calling frequency
 All vessels are required to maintain a listening
"watch" on FM 16 while underway
 FM 9 has been designated as an alternate
calling frequency
Visual LEVEL1.223
Frequencies for key marine VHF channels
156
FM
.45
9
Calling
FM 157.
22
1
FM 156
FM 157.
Calling/Distress
16 .8
23 15
FM 156 State/local gov't FM 156.
17 .85
shore sta.
68 425
FM 156
18 .9
FM 157
21 .05
Commercial
Intership
Coast Guard
FM
69
FM
83
Visual LEVEL1.224
156.
475
157.
175
Coast Guard NOTAMS
Coast Guard
Intership
Intership
Coast Guard
Auxillary
Restricted Channels
 Some channels are not for public use
 FM 83 is reserved for use by the Coast Guard Auxiliary
 FM 22 is for public communication with the Coast Guard, but may not be
used by boaters unless specifically instructed to do so by the Coast Guard
radio operator on FM 16
 FM 22 is also used by the Coast Guard to broadcast "Notice To Mariners"
messages (NOTAMS), after announcing them on FM 16.
 FM 6 is an Inter-Ship Safety channel, and is often used for search and
rescue operations.
 List of all marine channels and their assigned uses can be seen at
www.fcc.gov/wtb/marine/vhfchanl.html.
Visual LEVEL1.225
Spoken Emergency Signals
 "MAYDAY MAYDAY" — The highest priority urgency call.

Vessel calling is threatened by grave or immediate danger and requires
immediate assistance
 "PAN PAN" (pronounced "pawn-pawn") — known as an "urgency" call

Vessel calling has an urgent message concerning the safety of a vessel
or person
 "SECURITE" (pronounced "securitay")

Official messages about the safety of navigation or important weather
warnings
 "SILENCE"


Declared by Coast Guard
Only units involved in incident may transmit on frequency under order
lifted by Coast Guard
Visual LEVEL1.226
Incident Reporting
 Two types of incidents that hams may need to report
directly to the Coast Guard
 Vessels in distress
• Reported directly to the nearest Coast Guard station

Oil or chemical spills into public waters
• Coast Guard's National Response Center at 1-800-4248802
• NRC Internet Web site www.nrc.uscg.mil
Visual LEVEL1.227
Distress Calls
 Listen first to see if the Coast
Guard responds within a minute
or two
 If not, attempt to gather the
following information:
 Position of the vessel
involved
 Number of persons on board
 Nature of the distress
 Name of the vessel
 Call sign (if any)
 Length and type of vessel
Visual LEVEL1.228





Color
Any descriptive features —
number of masts, flying
bridge, etc
Weather conditions on
scene
On board emergency
equipment: life raft,
Emergency Position
Indicating Radio Beacon
(EPIRB) and class of EPIRB
if possible
Frequency being used to
communicate with the vessel
Distress Calls
 Contact either 911 dispatch or the closest Coast Guard facility by
phone
 In some cases, a local fire or police boat may be able to
respond more quickly than the Coast Guard
 Identify yourself as an Amateur Radio operator relaying an
emergency message
 Pass on all the information that you have gathered and assist as
requested
 Provide your name and phone number or other means of contact
so that responding local public safety agencies or the Coast
Guard may reach you if needed
Visual LEVEL1.229
Routine Communication
 Calling a vessel on a marine channel is very similar to 2 meters
 If using channel 9, transmit the name of the vessel you want to
talk with twice, followed by your station’s name twice, and the
channel designation.
 "Fishy Business, Fishy Business, this is Dream Boat, Dream
Boat, Channel 9“
 Listen for at least 30 seconds before repeating the call
 Once you get an answer, direct the station to shift to a "working"
channel
 "Fishy Business this is Dream Boat; shift to channel 69"
Visual LEVEL1.230
Routine Communication
 FCC rules require you to identify your vessel on
each transmission, although some stations shift
to a shortened call after the initial contact is
established
 The use of 10 codes and "Q" signals is not
permitted on marine VHF-FM
Visual LEVEL1.231
MW/HF SSB Communications
 U.S Coast Guard maintains "guard" on 2182 kHz

Calling and distress frequency
 MW and HF maritime frequencies and assignments

www.navcen.uscg.gov/marcomms/high_frequency/defa
ult.htm
 Many boaters carry HF amateur radio aboard.

Amateur Radio Maritime Nets
 www.arrl.org/FandES/field/nets/
Visual LEVEL1.232
Puget Sound Vessel Traffic Services
Visual LEVEL1.233
VTS
Mission:
To enhance navigation, vessel safety and
security, marine environmental protection, and
promote safe and secure vessel movements by
reducing the potential for recreational and
commercial marine accidents/casualties and loss
of life. This includes the safe, secure, and efficient
flow of commerce via the Marine Transportation
System.
Visual LEVEL1.234
In a year, VTS…
 Manages approx 220,000 transits
 Assists in 150 Search & Rescue Cases
 Responds to 300 Vessel Casualties
 Collates information for 30 pollution incidents
 Assists in approx 200 Law Enforcement cases
 Intervenes in 55 situations to prevent marine accidents
Visual LEVEL1.235
Equipment
 Radar


12 sites
2 types
 Radios


14 sites
Zetron controls
 CCTV Cameras
 Network


Microwave
Leased T1 lines
Visual LEVEL1.236
VTS Radar Coverage
Visual LEVEL1.237
“Seattle Traffic”
Victoria
CH 11
Tofino
CH 74
Seattle
“Straits”
Seattle
“North”
CH 5A
CH 5A
Seattle
“South”
CH 14
Seattle
“Deep South”
CH 14
Visual LEVEL1.238
VTS
Visual LEVEL1.239
VTS Radar
Visual LEVEL1.240
Photo by Dave McKnew
Lesson 21 Activity
 If you live within fifty miles of a seacoast, a major
navigable river, or any of the Great Lakes, identify
the U.S Coast Guard station nearest to your
community and its telephone number.
 Note: *CG on a cell phone in this area will
connect to the Coast Guard
Visual LEVEL1.241
Lesson 21 Questions
1. When is it permissible to utilize channel FM
22?
A. At anytime after making an initial call on
FM 16.
B. Whenever channel FM 9 or FM 16 are
busy.
C. Only when directed by the Coast Guard.
D. At no time; it is for Coast Guard use only
Visual LEVEL1.242
Lesson 21 Questions
2. What should you do if you hear an unanswered
marine distress call?
A. Contact the nearest Coast Guard facility and
advise them of the call.
B. Answer the caller immediately and ask what
the emergency is.
C. Get in your own boat and attempt a rescue.
D. Listen for a response. If none, respond and
gather all information possible and then
contact the nearest Coast Guard facility.
Visual LEVEL1.243
Lesson 21 Questions
3. When must you identify yourself on VHF-FM
marine radio?
A. Only on the initial call
B. Only on the initial call and the final call
C. Only on the original call and then every ten
minutes.
D. On all transmissions.
Visual LEVEL1.244
Lesson 21 Questions
4. Which vessels operate MW/HF SSB radios?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Any vessel that wants to.
Only sea-going vessels that operate outside
the range of VHF-FM radios.
Only those vessels that operate offshore and
have a VHF-FM marine radio.
Only those vessels that have an Amateur
Radio operator aboard.
Visual LEVEL1.245
Lesson 21 Questions
5. Which channel(s) may be used for calling
another vessel?
A. FM 83
B. FM 9
C. FM 16
D. Both FM 9 and FM 16
Visual LEVEL1.246
Lesson 21 References
 FCC regulatory information:
www.fcc.gov/wtb/marine/
 US Coast Guard: www.uscg.mil
Visual LEVEL1.247
Lesson 22 - Other Learning Opportunities
Visual LEVEL1.248
Practice, Practice, Practice…
Visual LEVEL1.249
Regularly Scheduled Nets
 Many local ARES and RACES groups hold regularly scheduled training
nets
 King County Weekly ARES/RACES NET

Time: Sundays, 8:00 p.m. local time
 Repeater: 146.820- (103.5)
 Seattle ACS Net


Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. on the 146.96 Repeater
Saturday 10 a.m.
 MST Net

Thursday evening at 8:00 PM on the 147.2 Repeater
Visual LEVEL1.250
Other Resources
 King County ARES/RACES Frequency Plan
 http://www.aresofkingcounty.org/kcfreqs.php
 Washington State ARES/RACES Website:
 http://www.wastateares.org/
Visual LEVEL1.251
Local Classroom & On-Air Training Sessions
 Your emcomm organization and/or served agency
may offer a variety of educational opportunities
 American Red Cross' Introduction to Disasters
and Disaster Damage Assessment courses
 On-air training sessions may be held on a
repeater or simplex frequency
Visual LEVEL1.252
Public Service Events
 Some of the best practice for tactical disaster
communication is your local "athon“
 Bike-athon, walk-athon or crawl-athon
 The larger the event, the better the experience
 Large, fast moving event closely simulates the
conditions experienced in disaster communication
situations
“Planned Disaster”
Visual LEVEL1.253
Other Resources
 Learning Resources on the Internet
 FEMA ICS courses
 CPR / First Aid
 Communications Academy
 Urban survival
 Washington State SAR academy
 Books
 Software
Visual LEVEL1.254
ARECC Levels II and III
 ARECC Level II is designed for those who wish to further
develop net management skills.
 Course is designed to prepare you for the jobs of NCS
and Net Manager.
 ARECC Level III is designed for emergency
communication managers at all levels.
 If you are, or plan to be, an AEC, EC, DEC, or SEC,
this is the course for you.
 Level III is also recommended for Net Managers.
Visual LEVEL1.255
Lesson 22 Activity
1. Choose the next step you will take to either
become involved with a local emcomm group,
and/or the next step in your emcomm education.
Share your choices with your mentor.
2. Suppose that you were placed in charge of
training a new group of emcomm team
members. To what five topics would you give the
highest priority?
Visual LEVEL1.256
Lesson 22 Questions
1. Which of the following was NOT recommended
as a means of practicing actual emcomm skills?
A. Regularly scheduled nets
B. On-air training sessions
C. Discussion groups
D. Public service events
Visual LEVEL1.257
Lesson 22 Questions
2. What is the purpose of the next course in this
series (ARECC Level II)?
A. To reinforce the skills and knowledge
presented in ARECC Level I.
B. To provide training for prospective
Emergency Operation Center Managers.
C. To prepare individuals for the jobs of NCS
and Net Manager.
D. To prepare individuals for the jobs of of DEC
or SEC.
Visual LEVEL1.258
Lesson 22 Questions
3. What is the purpose of the third course in this
series (ARECC Level III)?
A. To reinforce the skills and knowledge
presented in ARECC Level II.
B. To provide training for prospective
Emergency Operation Center Managers.
C. To prepare individuals for the jobs of NCS
and Net Manager.
D. To prepare individuals for management level
emcomm positions.
Visual LEVEL1.259
Lesson 23 - Modes, Methods, and
Applications
Visual LEVEL1.260
Some Concepts to Consider
 Communication modes fall into several categories:

Point to point -- Telephone, fax, some digital radio modes

Multi-point -- Voice and CW radio, some digital modes

High precision -- Fax, e-mail, digital modes

Low precision -- Voice, CW, telephone

High priority -- Voice, telephone

Low priority -- Fax, e-mail, digital modes, CW
Visual LEVEL1.261
Some Concepts to Consider
 Messages fall into similar categories:

Point to point -- Messages intended for one party

Point to multi-point -- Messages intended for a group

Multi-point to point -- Messages from members of a
group directed to one station

High precision -- Lists of items, medical or technical
terminology, specialized or detailed information

Low precision -- Traffic reports, damage estimates,
simple situation reports

High priority -- Fast delivery is critical

Low priority -- Messages can be delivered in a more
relaxed time frame
Visual LEVEL1.262
Some Concepts to Consider
 Each type of message should be sent using the most
appropriate mode, taking into consideration the message's
contents, and its destination(s)
 Example:

A localized flash flood hit a north Florida county a few
years ago, prompting the evacuation of a low-lying
neighborhood.
 The Red Cross opened a shelter in a church several
miles away from the affected area.
 ARES was mobilized to provide communication
support.
Visual LEVEL1.263
Example
 The shelter still had electricity and phone service.
 The ARES operator on duty was using his battery-operated 2-
meter hand-held radio and the wide-area repeater to talk to Red
Cross HQ across town.
 The ham was reading a three-page list of names and addresses
of evacuees who had checked into the shelter.
 To ensure proper transcription, he was spelling each name
phonetically, pausing after each name to see if the headquarters
station needed fills.
 Time-consuming process. The operator had been reading for
almost 15 minutes and was still on the second page of the list
Visual LEVEL1.264
Example
 Less than 10 feet away from his
operating position sat a fax
machine
 The EC turned on the machine,
dialed the Red Cross fax
number, and fed in the
remaining page of the list
 The ham on duty had used over
15 minutes of air time and
precious battery capacity to read
two pages
 The third page was faxed in less
than 20 seconds
Visual LEVEL1.265
After Action Report on Example
 Training and practice had led them to
 The repeater had been needed at the
 So, instead of an efficient, point-to-
 The "broadcast" of evacuee's names
concentrate on 2-meter voice to the
exclusion of other modes of
communication
point communication channel
(telephone line), they had used a busy
multi-point channel (the wide-area
repeater)
time for a different type of
communication -- the transfer of mobile
operator's reports
and addresses over non-secure
communication channels was a
violation of Red Cross policy
 Instead of using a mode that generated
automatic hard copy, they used one
that required handwritten transcription
 Instead of a high-precision transfer
(fax), they had used a low-precision
one (voice) requiring spelling and
phonetics
Visual LEVEL1.266
Tactical Messages
 Low-precision and time-critical
 Can be passed most efficiently using voice
 Can be formal written traffic
 It may mean that the microphone is handed to a
person from the served agency
Visual LEVEL1.267
Lists and Detailed Messages
 Long lists of supplies
 Details where accuracy is important
 Voice transmission can introduce errors
 Long messages can waste valuable net resources
 Digital modes (including land-line fax and email)



Best means of handling these messages
Fast and accurate
“Repeatable accuracy”
Visual LEVEL1.268
Sensitive Information
 Names and addresses of evacuees should never be
transmitted over voice channels
 Thieves with scanners can use this information to loot
unattended homes
 Digital transmissions require more than a simple scanner
to intercept
 They cannot be relied upon for absolute privacy
 If absolute privacy is required, the message should not be
transmitted by Amateur Radio
 In some cases, the most appropriate method might be
hand delivery by a radio-dispatched courier
Visual LEVEL1.269
Digital Modes
 Large volumes of written or high precision traffic

Health and welfare traffic
 Logistics messages involving lists of people or supplies
 Virtually error-free transmission
 Relays can be accomplished by retransmitting the received
digital message
 Packet systems can provide automatic relays
Visual LEVEL1.270
Winlink 2000
 Digital email-to-radio network
 HF
stations using Pactor
 VHF packet using local "TelPac" (telnet to
packet) nodes
Visual LEVEL1.271
HF
 Best digital modes for HF operation are
 Packet
 AMTOR
mode B
 PSK31 in QPSK mode
Visual LEVEL1.272
VHF/UHF
 TNC2 (Terminal Node Controller, Version 2) FM
packet is the most common mode
Visual LEVEL1.273
Packet
 Error-free in point to point "automated repeat
request" (ARQ) or "forward error correction"(FEC)
broadcast modes
 “Bulletin board"
 Sending
station "posts" his messages on the
bulletin board
 Other stations can then retrieve their
messages at will
 Urgent messages can also be sent directly to
the receiving station if needed
Visual LEVEL1.274
Bulletin Boards
 Useful when a number of stations are sending messages
to a single point, such as a
 Command post,
 Weather service office, or
 Emergency operations center.
 Useful in handling outgoing traffic.

Stations with traffic can post messages to the bulletinboard
 Traffic handlers can periodically pick up the traffic and
send it to the outbound NTS nets
Visual LEVEL1.275
WiFi or 802.11
 Used to link computers within a home or office
 802.11b/g 2.4GHz wireless Ethernet
 Amateurs have begun experimenting with long-range
applications
 July 2005 issue of QST

Off-the-shelf consumer grade equipment
 Small dish antennas
 Paths up to 34 miles and data rates of 150KB
Visual LEVEL1.276
WiFi Distance Record
 A small wireless Internet service
provider in Idaho and a wireless
equipment start-up claim to have
set a new record for transmitting
data across a wireless link (August
2005)
 Microserv Computer Technologies,
based in Idaho Falls, and Trango
Broadband Wireless, a fixedwireless broadband equipment
maker, announced that they
wirelessly transmitted data over
unlicensed spectrum 137.2 miles.
Visual LEVEL1.277
AMTOR Mode B
 AMateur Teleprinting Over Radio

Sending station sends each character twice
 Receiving station does not acknowledge the data
received
 If a receiving station matches both instances of a
character, that character will be printed, otherwise
some error symbol is printed
 Advanced teletype mode

With forward error correction
 Ideal for high precision messages over long distances
Visual LEVEL1.278
PSK31
 Phase Shift Keying, 31 Baud

Keyboard-to-keyboard
 Usable in very poor
 High efficiency

 QPSK, forward errorcorrection
conditions makes it ideal for
HF emergency
communication

 BPSK, no error correction
Very narrow bandwidth
Even a low power
transmitter will work
 BPSK should be used unless
the received copy is poor,
since QPSK is 3dB less
efficient and requires more
careful tuning.
 Under all but the worst
conditions, BPSK will provide
perfect transmissions.
Visual LEVEL1.279
Packet Teleprinting Over Radio (PACTOR)
 Packet and AMTOR combination
 HF use only
 Uses FEC and ARQ modes
 Standard keyboard
 Quite robust

Can be slowed by poor band conditions
Visual LEVEL1.280
TCP/IP Packet
 Advantages over conventional packet protocols
 JNOS







JNOS is a TCP/IP oriented e-mail system
If you're familiar with Internet e-mail, you're familiar with
typing e-mail into JNOS
SMTP mail protocol and can interface to Internet
Print incoming messages automatically onto a printer
Up to eight windows for multiple sessions for messaging
Supports multiple communications ports and multiple
radio/TNC combinations
Shareware
 NOS (Network Operating System)
Visual LEVEL1.281
APRS®
 Automatic Position Reporting System



Track a station's location
GPS receiver
Position information is transmitted to other stations
using APRS packet software
 Displaying the location of the sending station on a map
 Messaging mode similar to Internet "Instant Messaging"
where quick one-line messages can be exchanged
 Automatic Packet Reporting System

Automated reporting of data from digital weather
stations
Visual LEVEL1.282
APRS®
 Emcomm APRS Use
 Locations
of various emergency vehicles can
be tracked visually in real time in an automated
and unattended fashion
 Weather
and other environmental data can be
reported automatically in near real-time
Visual LEVEL1.283
Related Considerations
 Become familiar with, and practice using, any
digital mode or system well in advance of an
emergency
 Most are complex enough that some
experience is required to use them efficiently
and effectively
 High duty-cycle of many digital modes requires a
rugged radio and power supply with adequate
cooling
Visual LEVEL1.284
Digital Equipment
Visual LEVEL1.285
Amateur Television (ATV)
 Slow-scan

Uses a voice-grade channel to send a still picture line
by line
 Can take more than a minute for a color picture to be
transmitted
 Fast-scan

Live, full motion TV similar to what you see on
commercial TV, but usually at reduced quality
 No emcomm ATV transmission should ever be "staged" for
the camera
Visual LEVEL1.286
Amateur TV
Visual LEVEL1.287
Lesson 23 Activities
1. Consider your own personal radio resources. Of the modes mentioned
within this lesson, which would you consider acquiring for your own
use? Why? Which would you not consider acquiring? Why not?
2. Select three of the digital modes. Identify the positive and negative
aspects of using each of the three in an emcomm situation.
3. Based on the considerations you have identified above, develop a
simple communication equipment plan for a small emcomm unit based
in a small community. Within your plan, be sure to identify the
equipment and modes you would employ.
4. How would the plan you developed above be different if your emcomm
group were quite large and located in a large community?
Visual LEVEL1.288
Lesson 23 Questions
1. Which of the following describes your purpose
as an emergency communicator?
A. To operate the radio.
B. To coordinate communications for the EOC.
C. To provide accurate and rapid transfer of
information from one place to another.
D. To provide internal communication support to
one (and only one) responding agency.
Visual LEVEL1.289
Lesson 23 Questions
2. Which of the following best describes tactical
messages?
A. They are high precision and time critical.
B. They are low precision and time critical.
C. They are point-to-point and NOT time critical.
D. They are point-to-multipoint and low
precision.
Visual LEVEL1.290
Lesson 23 Questions
3. Long lists and detailed messages are best
handled by which of the following modes?
A. Voice or CW
B. Fax or digital
C. CW or digital
D. Phone or fax
Visual LEVEL1.291
Lesson 23 Questions
4. During an emergency, you are using voice transmissions
to pass messages. Which of the following "guidelines"
should govern your action if you were asked to transmit
the names and addresses of victims?
A. Transmit the information exactly as presented to you.
B. Use a pre-established code to transmit the
information.
C. If absolute privacy is required, do not transmit the
information by Amateur Radio.
D. Switch to a digital mode and be assured of complete
privacy.
Visual LEVEL1.292
Lesson 23 Questions
5. Which of the following PSK31 modes has an
error correction feature?
A. BPSK
B. QPSK
C. RPSK
D. SPSK
Visual LEVEL1.293
Lesson 23 References
 PSK - Has RTTY's Replacement Arrived? By Steve Ford,
WB8IMY www.arrl.org/tis/info/psk31/index.html
 Surfin': Make a Packet Racket with a Sound Card By Stan
Horzepa, WA1LOU www.arrl.org/news/features/2001/02/1/
 Getting Started in Digital Communications - RTTY, Packet,
Amtor, PSK31 www.arrl.org/tis.info/pdf/69234.pdf
 ARESPACK software (free download)
www.users.erols.com/sagers/arespack30.exe
Visual LEVEL1.294
Questions??
Visual LEVEL1.295
Thank You
Visual LEVEL1.296