----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Dedicated to Emergency Communications by RADIO
EMCOMM MONTHLY
Official Journal of the World Radio Relay League
www.wrrl.org-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------VOL. 3 -- No. 6 ONLINE: www.emcomm.org/em/ November 2006
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TABLE OF CONTENTSThe EM PHILOSOPHYSHORT CIRCUITS - Brief itemsFEEDBACK, MUSINGS... and SPURIOUS EMISSIONS
The EM ADVISOR - "Q and A"WRRL WINDS - WRRL Member News
ICS PERSPECTIVES
TRAFFIC HANDLING -
NETWORK NEWS - "N.E.T.S."
EMCOMM WORKSHOP
SHOW US YOUR SHACK
FEATURE SECTION - "Blockheads"
EMCOMM SPECIALTY ITEMS - Stuff for Sale
NEW SUBSCRIBERS and CONTRIBUTORS
SUPPORT OUR SUPPORTERS
REFERENCE and RESOURCE SECTIONThe EM PHILOSOPHY
FCC REPORT AND ORDER
The latest FCC Report and Order* has caused an uproar in some amateur radio circles. While lauded by many hams and ham radio organizations, the portions of the proposed "order" that will expand legal phone operation into some of the sub-bands that are now designated solely for CW, RTTY, and data, has resulted in a near panic with some public service operators. A rumor is also being circulated that CW (A1A emissions) will only be legal within the CW sub-bands. Part 97.305(a) still says: An amateur station may transmit a CW emission on any frequency authorized to the control operator. Some net managers are considering moving long-standing CW net frequencies to within the new (now smaller) CW sub-band.
EM views this recent turn of events mostly as just one more step down in the dumbing-down-drain of amateur radio. Just one more nail-in-the-coffin of the amateur service, especially with regard to emcomm and other public service activities. EM and WRRL is taking a watch and wait position. We refuse to be jacked around by those who see amateur radio as being solely a hobby service. CW signals still continue to be the most reliable mode when it comes to punching through QRM and QRN. So, for the time being, the NATIONAL EMCOMM TRAFFIC SERVICE (NETS) WATCH • MONITOR • CALLING • TRAFFIC (NOMINAL) FREQUENCIES will remain unchanged. (Of course the revisions in the FCC Rules should make amateur radio book publishers and book retailers happy.)
*Full information at:BACKGROUND CHECKS
The American Red Cross has decreed that all Red Cross employees and volunteers must now undergo "background checks". This is an expansion of an existing program to check the backgrounds on all new employees hired since 2000 and all DSHR (Disaster Services Human Resource) members since October 2005. This is no doubt a result of an increased concern about pedophiles, thieves, scam artists, and other crooks gaining access to mass-care shelters where evacuees and disaster victims are most vulnerable. The background checks will likely be performed by a private contractor. (More private $$$ out the window.)
It is unclear how this will affect emcomm operators or other providers and/or vendors (e.g. someone delivering supplies), who may need to enter a Red Cross shelter or other facility who are not "Red Cross Volunteers". However (as we see it now):Bill Frazier, W7ARC, WRRL 3, and long time ARC DSHR Volunteer says:
"If an EMCOMM operator is working under the existing MOU between the ARRL and the American Red Cross, there should be no reason for them to become a Red Cross volunteer unless they want that status also. This begs the question, who are you volunteering for? Are you a Red Cross volunteer who is a ham radio operator? Or, are you a volunteer EMCOMM operator who is helping the Red Cross?The current MOU between the ARRL/ARES and the American Red Cross states:
5. Volunteers from ARRL, ARES, and NTS MAY, under conditions and terms established by American Red Cross from time to time, also serve as American Red Cross volunteers for a mutually agreed upon task or function. Such volunteers shall have the responsibilities and be entitled to the privileges of an American Red Cross volunteer for the designated period in accordance with, and subject to, all American Red Cross standards and regulations."
That was the rule, at least up until now. Now, emcomm operators may be required to sign on as Red Cross Volunteers if they wish to work in a Red Cross facility. In that case, they would be working under Red Cross' supervision and direction, and may be asked to perform non-communication tasks.All the ruckus and hysteria in some circles baffles us. In reality, there are very few valid reasons (if any) for an emcomm station to actually be located inside a mass-care shelter. There are, however, many reasons why it is better to locate emcomm stations outside (but nearby) a mass-care shelter. In that case, a background check of emcomm volunteers would not be necessary. (At least as far as the Red Cross is concerned.)In my many years (about 40) with the American Red Cross, both as a staff member and volunteer, as Director of Disaster Services, Director of Nursing & Health Programs, Shelter Manager, Disaster Health Nurse and Supervisor, etc., I cannot recall a single incident where a Red Cross volunteer committed some crime. But I do recall several incidents where shelter occupants or other victims committed larcenous and other criminal and/or violent acts. (I know of one event where two parallel shelters were opened in order to segregate rival gang members from each other.) So far, I have not heard of any plans to require background checks on evacuees or disaster victims. Who knows? That may be next. We can just see it now...hundreds of evacuees standing out in the open waiting to have a security "clearance" before they can go inside to get a hot meal and a bed to sleep on!EM and WRRL suggest we all stay focused on our mission of providing EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS. We advocate a "one size fits all" style of emcomm. In other words, "one-stop" emcomm stations serving any and all agencies (as well as the general public), even if they are located nearby, but outside a shelter, hospital, EOC, or other facility. They may be in a trailer, van, camper, tent, or nearby shed, shack or garage. - Editor
PANDORA'S (interoperability) BOX?
In the September EM ADVISOR, Richard Webb, NF5B queried about an "interoperability box". We received more correspondence on this subject than just about anything else. In October we devoted a lot of space to the subject, probably far too much time and energy on something that is only remotely related to amateur radio emcomm and the mission of EM and the WRRL.
In fact, we view this (and other such high-tech, automated schemes) as having a negative impact on what we are attempting to promote. These programs have a history of seducing radio amateurs away from learning and/or practicing the basics of emcomm. (Such as Morse and/or voice standardized traffic handling, etc.) In my own section, I have had several ARES® leaders get sucked in to a single agency "team" with a big fancy mobile communications unit. If that is what someone wants to do...that is their business. But emcomm, as we see it, is for when all that high-tech stuff breaks down or is overloaded. Then, teams of skilled operators, equipped with simple transceivers, antennas, and batteries or generators, can spread out over a stricken area, assemble their stations, and operate them (using a mic and/or key) to provide radio communications for whomever needs it.
Just in case someone is planning on interfacing Amateur Radio signals with public service bands using Audio Combining Units (ACUs), they need to know that it is prohibited. We should have mentioned this in the October issue...but since we didn't...here it is now:
From: §97.113 Prohibited transmissions.
(e) No station shall retransmit programs or signals emanating from any type of radio station other than an amateur station, except propagation and weather forecast information intended for use by the general public and originated from United States Government stations and communications, including incidental music, originating on United States Government frequencies between a space shuttle and its associated Earth stations. Prior approval for shuttle retransmissions must be obtained from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Such retransmissions must be for the exclusive use of amateur operators. Propagation, weather forecasts,
and shuttle retransmissions may not be conducted on a regular basis, but only occasionally, as an incident of normal amateur radio communications.
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SHORT CIRCUITSKATRINA SURVIVOR SUCCUMBSRoxy the Rottweiler, Katrina survivor and beloved companion of Richard Webb, NF5B, WRRL 93, and Kathleen Anderson, KCØHZU suffered a stroke recently and became a silent woof on October 24. Richard and Kathleen were the radio operators who provided communications between LSU Medical Center New Orleans and the outside world for six days immediately following Katrina. Kathleen is wheelchair-bound and Richard is blind. Roxy the Rottweiler was missing in action for several weeks after the disaster, but was later found, rescued and was nursed back to health with loving care. Roxy will be missed.
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TRAFFIC HANDLER'S NEWS
THC AND DVD FEEDBACK:
"Haven't worn out the DVD yet, but we're working on it. Qualification runs have begun for TYPE 3 and TYPE 4 ARCTS here in Central Florida! We've also begun the long process of bringing Orange County Florida ARES® up to speed on efficient and consistent use of the RADIOGRAM format. By early next year we hope to see lots of local callsigns on the Traffic Handler's Quiz Scoreboard with acceptable scores." - John Emery, KG4RQO, WRRL 155
TAKE THE TRAFFIC HANDLER'S CHALLENGE AT: http://thc.emcomm.org
RADIOGRAM / MESSAGE TRAFFIC HANDLING DVD
The RADIOGRAM TRAINING DVD features D. W. Thorne, K6SOJ, as the instructor. The session was taped live at the U.S.F.S. facility at Redding, CA on October 29, 2005 by Paul Peterson (K6PTT). As you watch it, you'll feel like you are actually in the classroom. DW begins with a review of the history of communications beyond the horizon, followed by a thorough explanation of the "whys and wherefores" of basic message handling. Essential information for all emcomm operators is presented in a palatable way. The video includes a brief overview of the ICS. Thanks to Robert Jackson (KB6YTD) of Weaverville, CA, the quality is good. Disclaimer: This is not your usual scripted, studio, well-rehearsed, and edited training video--it is raw and unedited and it includes flub-ups, bloopers, jokes, as well as unsolicited comments! There are a few "glitches" that could not be remedied; however, it is not necessary to adjust your player or TV when you encounter them, but rather just let the video run. Not rated. 155 minutes. $10.00 (includes postage and shipping) - $15.00 for two DVDs to same address. The DVD is copyrighted. Contact us for permission to copy for non-commercial use only. Send check payable to: EMCOMM, P. O. Box 99, Macdoel, CA 96058∙-∙-∙
FEEDBACK, MUSINGS... and SPURIOUS EMISSIONS
FROM THE SUNSHINE STATE:"We held our S-E-T on October 28. It was a fairly simple exercise involving a hurricane-caused phone and power outage. Orange County Emergency Management tasked us with establishing communications via ham radio with four fire stations that are used as both fire and law enforcement rallying points in event of such a disruption.
Here's the interesting part. All formal traffic was handled using ICS-213 Message forms since that's what the county OEM uses. While the field operators did just fine, they all noted in their "after-action briefing" that they wished they had a way to keep track of the messages for logging purposes. When asked if they preferred the preamble of a standard RADIOGRAM (NETS, NTS, etc.) message format, they unanimously answered, "Yes!" This is from a bunch or ARES® volunteers who hadn't seen a RADIOGRAM until two months ago!!!! I'll confess that we haven't even scratched the surface of your Traffic Handling DVD and still we got this response.
The bottom line is that Orange County ARES® leadership will contact the county OEM, and ask them for permission to append "Operator notes" in the form of the NETS/ NTS preamble to each ICS-213 message we handle for them. This is from a leadership that included no traffic handlers three months ago and only two "worker-bees" who regularly checked in to local traffic nets. There is hope!
And just as a teaser, we "certified" three TYPE 3 ARCTS based on their performance in the SET. Yes, I know, it's a long way from submitting our application for an TYPE 1 ARCT, but it's still a real beginning. It sure beats standing around "sucking down donuts" and waiting for leadership to ask us to do something (anything) having to do with Emergency Communication.
Thank you for all you do at the WRRL and EmComm.org. Believe it or not, there are folks out here in the hinterlands who benefit from your efforts when you least expect it! - John Emery, KG4RQO, WRRL 155, Winter Park, FL
EM COMMENT - Thanks for the great report John. We always enjoy hearing about where real progress is being made! On the subject of the ICS-213 we have published a lot about it. The most recent was in August 2006. www.emcomm.org/em/august2006.htm Also, if you go to www.emcomm.org and click on site search and search for ICS-213 you will find plenty more. Agencies will probably continue to use ICS-213, since the SPEED-MEMO meets their needs for short-range inter-office messages hand delivered or delivered by courier. Radio operators will have to extract the message text from a ICS-213 and "convert" it to a RADIOGRAM text, ascertain and add an address and telephone number, inquire from the originator what precedence is requested, as well as other necessary items in the preamble, before it can be entered into the National Emcomm Traffic Service (WRRL-NETS), or the National Traffic System (ARRL-NTS). Oh yes, keep up the good work...and please keep us updated!
∙-∙-∙THE EM ADVISOR
The staff of EMCOMM MONTHLY is happy to answer your questions to the best of our ability. Some are "FAQs" (Frequently Asked Questions) and others are of a specific nature. Each month we will answer questions that may have value to other emcomm radio operators. Technical questions are forwarded to our Technical Advisor, Ed Ewell, K7DXV. Questions about our ARCT program or ICS/NIMS are forwarded to Jerry Boyd, N7WR. Others may be forwarded to other staff members. Questions regarding EMCOMM in general are usually handled by D. W. Thorne, K6SOJ. Some will wind up on our FAQ page at: http://www.wrrl.org/faq.aspBefore submitting a question, we ask our readers to check the FAQ page first...your question may have been asked before. Also, please consider checking our site search page at: http://www.emcomm.org/search.htm to see if your question may have been previously addressed in EMCOMM MONTHLY. Thank you.Q: "Have you been following this ARES/RACES brouhaha? I've been keeping my mouth shut. But, I'm always ready to have you educate me." - S. McLennan, KM7S, Waldport, OR"Apparently some people still don't get it. Even after the rules are spelled it out chapter and verse. I know you've probably written a million articles on the difference between ARES® and RACES, but maybe it's time to do something again." - Bill Frazier, W7ARC, Lynnwood, WA
A: Rules? Since when did "the rules" count for anything? Many hams see "the rules" (which have the force of law), as simply being "guidelines". Others just ignore them outright. Ignorance is not a valid excuse.
We first addressed the RACES vs. ARES (and other emcomm units) problem in an EMCOMM BULLETIN on July 15, 2003. You can read it at: www.emcomm.org/archives/number167.htm#06A NOTE: Keep in mind that article was written "pre-WRRL".
The RACES provision in FCC Part 97 was added to the regulations over 50 years ago and allowed local or state government Civil Defense units to utilize amateur radio operators during war time. (During World War II amateur radio was shut down.) Later, RACES was expanded to allow amateur radio to be used by "government" during natural disasters and other emergencies. RACES may have been a good idea to begin with but now it is not much more than a relic of the cold war.
Those who have read some of the current postings and rants, will see that "RACES" has morphed into almost as many different forms as there are local governments. In the postings I have read, I found no two RACES "units" defining it alike. Some view RACES as an organization (as opposed to a special service) and some have even "incorporated" a RACES unit! Others see RACES as an alternative to ARES® for those who dislike the ARRL or some of its leaders.Last month it was my privilege to address the California Emergency Services Association (CESA) on the subject of Amateur Radio Communication Teams (ARCTS). About 130 emergency managers listened intently while I reviewed communications and resource typing in general, followed by presenting a realistic view of the value and capabilities of trained operators from the amateur service for disaster and other emergency communications.
I came away with the impression that many emergency managers are grossly uninformed about amateur emcomm, but they are also seriously interested in tapping amateur radio as an emcomm resource. A few are fed up with all the ARES® vs. RACES vs. radio club, "adolescent male" competitive infighting and political BS.Most of them simply want a team of skilled radio operators who can deliver tactical or formal messages when all the usual methods of communications are broken or overloaded. They really don't care how many radios are hanging on your belt or the number of antennas on your car, or what color your cap is, or if you have a whirl-a-gig on your hat. (If you show up wearing a pseudo cop badge you will probably be asked to leave...unless you really are a cop). I also received several comments to this effect: "I never thought about emergency communications being a resource available to the general public." - EditorWRRL was formed to provide just one thing. Amateur Radio Emergency Communications -- trained, skilled and prepared teams of radio men and women.WRRL: "BY-PASSING THE POLITICS OF EMCOMM."
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"WRRL WINDS" (WRRL MEMBER NEWS)
∙ WRRL NETS - MONDAYS on 14.280± MHz USB 1940Z (SUMMER) 2040Z (WINTER)∙ WRRL STATION MAP UPDATE
A map showing the approximate location of WRRL stations can be viewed at: http://www.wrrl.org/map/
∙ WRRL MEMBER'S PATCHES (view at: www.wrrl.org/supplies.asp ) are now in stock. One for $5, two for $8, or three for $10 (postpaid to one address). Make checks payable to WRRL. Recommended display is on left sleeve 3/4" below shoulder seam of shirt or jacket. Other acceptable placements for the patch are on a removable armband or on a black baseball style cap or black "mil-spec" beret.∙ WRRL LOGO RUBBER STAMPA WRRL LOGO rubber stamp is now available. Use on envelopes, QSL cards, letters, etc. It is like our "globe logo" except it has www.wrrl.org below the globe.
View at: http://www.wrrl.org/supplies.asp Since they are fairly expensive, we are offering them at our cost. (However, you may include a little extra as a donation if you are feeling rich!). Order an Ideal® 400R, 1-5/8" diameter, self-inking stamp for $19.95 + 2.00 postage; or a knob handle wood stamp for $13.95 + $2.00 postage. Make checks payable to: WRRL. Send to: WRRL, P.O. Box 99, Macdoel, CA 96058. Allow about two weeks for delivery.
∙ WRRL MEMBER LISTS
Lists of WRRL members by number, state, and call sign are updated monthly and are posted on www.wrrl.org The two digit member numbers are gone. We only hope that by this time next year we are saying "the three digit numbers are gone"! Our goal? 600 WRRL STATIONS...and at least one fully capable TYPE I ARCT in each FEMA REGION in 2006.
∙ WRRL CALL SIGN: W7RRLW7RRL is issued to the World Radio Relay League. It is authorized for use during special nets, events and incidents.
WRRL: "BUILDING A POOL OF SKILLED AMATEUR RADIO COMMUNICATION TEAMS...ONE TEAM AT A TIME!"
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ICS PERSPECTIVES
By Jerry Boyd, N7WR, Associate Editor and ICS AdvisorAs the world of government (at least in the United States) turns more and more to ICS as its emergency/disaster response model, it is taking non-government along with it. That’s not a criticism, but a fact. As an example, our local American Red Cross (ARC) Chapter, which uses amateur radio for Health & Welfare traffic only (we do not provide “tactical” communications for the Chapter), recently asked if our response to requests for communicators at shelters would be in a “strike team” or “task force” configuration. Our answer was that, under ICS, both a strike team and task force consist of five (5) resources grouped together. A strike team consists of five resources of the same type. A task force consists of five similar, complementary resources. We would, in fact, deploy a strike team or task force only if there were five shelters that needed operators (highly unlikely). We went on to explain that in all likelihood what we would deploy would be “single resources” (in our case ARCT Type IV since we have adopted the ARCT system) in a number sufficient to meet the needs of the Red Cross.
The point? In order to respond to “enlightened questions” such as the one asked by our ARC, we need to at least be familiar with ICS terminology and what various terms represent. In today’s era, many of our potential “clients” speak ICS-eze even though they may not at all understand what the terms mean. Having us both understand and respond intelligently will be most helpful. 73 from NE Oregon∙-∙-∙
TRAFFIC HANDLING“For want of a letter, a word was lost.
For want of a word, the message was lost.
For want of a message, a life was lost.”
Ed "FB" Trump, AL7N, Fairbanks, Alaska - Traffic Editor and Alaska Correspondent
Reference: "AN EXERCISE THAT MIGHT BE ENLIGHTENING" in the October issue of EM:
This idea will no doubt be "enlightening" to any who try it!
Years ago, one of the favorite "activities" we used to have at hamfests and conventions was to set up four "operating positions". Two of them were connected by a telephone line and had PTT microphones and headsets at each end. The other two were connected by a pair of wires and had code oscillators, Morse keys and headsets at each end. Neither end could "hear" or "see" the other operators except via the circuits between them.
There were "packets" of formal traffic made available in sealed envelopes, 6 or 8 formal messages to a packet, and the packets were made "in duplicate", one for the phone team and one for the CW team. The contest messages were in "standard radiogram format" contained no errors, and were typewritten.
Amateurs who wished to try their hand at record message handling and considered themselves "skilled" in traffic work were invited to pair off and "sit in" on a contest where two "phone" operators took on two "CW" operators in a contest to see which team could "clear the hook" first.
Identical sealed packets of "traffic" were given to the transmitting operator of each pair of amateurs, one pair using "phone" and the other using CW and on the "go" signal, they opened things up and began working with their counterpart at the "distant" end.
Sometimes, several messages were given to EACH operator of the pair, and they were instructed to "exchange" messages where each op got the chance to not only send some, but receive some as well. This served to level the playing field a bit and prevented either team from selecting their best "sending men" and pairing them with their best "receiving men".
Copy was with a pen or pencil only, no typewriters. Morse operators were allowed to use bugs, if desired. Of course there was no QRM or QRN to contend with.
The winning operator pair or team in the contest was judged on accuracy as determined by comparing "sent" copy with that "received". The "time" it took to send it all from one end to another was also noted. A team could win only with best accuracy. Accuracy was considered foremost, one team had to exhibit fewer total errors than the other team order to win. A fast time with lots of errors wouldn't cut it. The judges considered each message copy submitted by the "receiving" operators in view of proper format on the paper, accuracy as compared with the original sender's copy, as well as general "deliverability" as to whether the submitted received message copy was in condition to be delivered to a third party addressee "as received" without having to be "cleaned up" or recopied in order to deliver. (You could really get "style points" here!)
This was great fun on the part of those who participated, and exposed any bad habits like gangbusters! It was also an eye-opener to many.
Of course, the CW operators invariably won........better accuracy AND shorter time.......every time! Can you imagine the improvement in message handling skills if amateurs regularly "practiced" to enter contests like this?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------THE “TRAFFIC HANDLER’S MANTRA” (Recite often to help remember the eight parts in preamble):
“No • Prepared • Ham • Should • Copy • Priority • Traffic • Delayed”
“No • Prepared • Ham • Should • Copy • Priority • Traffic • Delayed”
“No • Prepared • Ham • Should • Copy • Priority • Traffic • Delayed”
NUMBER • PRECEDENCE • HX • STATION OF ORIGIN • CHECK • PLACE OF ORIGIN • TIME • DATE
To help you to memorize the eight parts of the preamble, RECITE the "Traffic Handlers Mantra" often:
“No • Prepared • Ham • Should • Copy • Priority • Traffic • Delayed”
ASSESS your current traffic handling skill, take the "TRAFFIC HANDLER’S CHALLENGE" at: www.emcomm.org (main page)∙-∙-∙
NATIONAL EMCOMM TRAFFIC SERVICE (N.E.T.S.)
The NATIONAL EMCOMM TRAFFIC SERVICE uses designated watch and calling frequencies. Public service amateur radio operators everywhere are invited to monitor these frequencies whenever possible. But when disasters or other incidents occur, emcomm operators are asked to warm up their radios and "light up" the NATIONAL EMCOMM TRAFFIC SERVICE..."24/7". Active operators know which bands are most likely to be "open" depending upon the time of day, season, etc.
During disasters and for other emergencies the frequencies are "open nets". When traffic becomes heavy they will become "command and control" frequencies with a net control station "triaging traffic" and directing stations with traffic to another (traffic) frequency. (At least 5 kHz away.) Proper net procedures are essential.
NETS does not maintain regular schedules and does not handle routine "make work" messages such as birthday greetings, "your license is about to expire", "book messages", etc.) NETS is intended to supplement and fortify other networks by providing a vehicle for emcomm operators to originate, relay and deliver legal radio message traffic (i.e. - "first class mail") of any precedence, at any time, from and to anyone and anywhere--especially during disasters or other crises. NETS stations will cooperate and use other networks that are known to be capable of accurately and efficiently handling RADIOGRAMS.
NATIONAL EMCOMM TRAFFIC SERVICE (NETS) WATCH • MONITOR • CALLING • TRAFFIC FREQUENCIES
All listed frequencies (except 60 meters) are nominal. Actual nets may be up or down as much as 20 kHz.
SSB:
• 1982 kHz (May be activated during incidents.)
• 3987 kHz (And down because most "RACES" activity is above 3.990.)
• 5332 kHz "Up" to other 60M channels as necessary. 50W maximum ERP. (Activated during actual incidents.)
• 7244 kHz (up)
• 14280 kHz (up)
• ALASKA ONLY: 5167.5 kHz (USB emergency traffic only)
CW:
• 1911 kHz (May be active during incidents.)
• 3711 kHz
• 7111 kHz
• 10119 kHz• 14050 kHz
• ALASKA - 3540/7042/14050 kHz
• GULF STATES (LA, MS, TX, AL) - 7111 kHz 1100Z-2300Z / 3711 kHz 2300Z-1100Z
(Times approximate depending on band conditions and changes in sunrise/sunset.)
VHF/UHF FM
• ARES® 146.55 MHz
• ARES®/Red Cross 147.42 MHz
• NATIONAL CALLING (and Wilderness Protocol) 146.52 MHz
• WILDERNESS PROTOCOL (ref. June 1996 QST, page 85).
Primary frequency: 146.52 MHz (FM simplex). Secondary frequencies: 446.0, 223.5, 52.525
and 1294.5 MHz. All stations (fixed, portable or mobile) monitor the primary (and
secondary if possible) frequency(s) every three hours starting at 7:00 am local time, for five
minutes (7:00-7:05 AM, 10:00-10:05 AM, etc.) Additionally, stations that have sufficient
power resources monitor for five minutes starting at the top of every hour, or continuously.
NOTES:
1. "Up" or "down" should be in increments of 3-5 kHz SSB (except 60M); 1-2 kHz minimum CW.
2. If traffic is heavy, nearby frequencies should be designated by NCS at least 5 kHz away from NC.
3. 60 METER BAND (USB):
CH NOMINAL CARRIER
A 5332kHz 5330.5kHz
B 5348kHz 5346.5kHz
C 5368kHz 5366.5kHz
D 5373kHz 5371.5kHz
E 5405kHz 5403.5kHz (common US/UK)
Some of the frequencies listed may be on or near other established net frequencies.As a matter of operating courtesy always move up or down a few kHz to avoid QRM when a frequency is in use.
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THE EMCOMM WORKSHOP - An "Emergency Universal Connector"1 - Pair of "dikes." (Diagonal wire cutters).1 - Pocket knife. (Be careful).2 - Wire nuts. (For more than one two-pole connection...you'll need more nuts.)
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QSH -- (I HAVE HUMOR FOR YOUR STATION)
EM’s Quiz, Survey, and [attempt at] Humor Section...
Froggy the Gremlin...lives!
"Lost you on Thursday's net (JNN Oct 5) as large storm clouds passed over. Caught some of your after-net qso with N6GJM. Thank you for reminding the memories of Froggy the Gremlin! I couldn't remember what show he was on, and my wife really looked at my funny when I asked if she remembered him a few years ago.
You might be interested (slightly) that Froggy now has his very own web site. www.froggythegremlin.com -- Gerry Glauser, K7ATS, Kanab, UT
∙-∙-∙"SHOW US YOUR SHACK" -
• Send a picture of you AND your shack (all in one frame and in JPG or JPEG format) to: k6soj@wrrl.orgFEATURES SECTION
Below is an update of "EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND LAUREL & HARDY" which first appeared in August 2001. (About 5 weeks before the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.) As we enter the holiday season out thoughts naturally turn toward enjoying this wonderful season with family and friends, and sharing our many blessings with others who may be less fortunate. During this season, it is easy to let our guard down. It is important for all of us to always remain prepared and ready.*
HOLIDAY BLOCKHEADS
The 1938 Laurel and Hardy movie classic, BLOCKHEADS, begins depicting Stan, an Army sentry who had been instructed to “guard his post until relieved” during World War I, still at his post in 1938 - some twenty years later. It seems that he had failed to hear that the “Great War” was over and that the armistice had been signed in 1918. As Stan sits down to another meal of cold canned beans, the camera pans around to a huge mountain of empty cans. About that time a fighter plane flies over. Stan picks up his rifle and fires at it, but the pilot lands safely, and informs Stan that the “great war” has been over...for twenty years!There is a lesson to be learned from this comedic portrayal of a loyal and devoted soldier.
One of the problems we have in most emergency preparedness groups is loss of interest and attrition. I often hear comments such as, “We never get called to do anything.” Of course, that is not entirely true, but it is true that in many jurisdictions there is less utilization of the volunteer amateur resource than is often available. But emcomm operators come and go. Some leave because it was not what they expected or they find it difficult to work in a team structure.
The diehards among us realize, (just like Stan), the importance of maintaining a state of readiness...boring or not. They check into their local and regional nets on a regular basis. They keep their gear organized and ready to go. They keep up to date on their unit’s plan, and have a copy of it handy for ready reference. They support their leaders by attending (and participating in) meetings, training, and drills. They self educate themselves by reading books, and utilizing the internet. (But beware...there are a lot of bogus emcomm “authorities” with impressive websites).
But those who really care...remain involved and prepared. Day after day, month after month, year after year. Whether or not they are ever called to action. It doesn’t take an excessive amount of time or effort to remain PREPARED for emergency incidents that usually happen when we least expect.
We are in the 21st century. The old values of dedication, loyalty, discipline, and striving for excellence, have become passe’ for many people. Are you doing all that you can to support your local and national emcomm group? Do you regularly participate in local and regional emcomm nets? Is your station and your “Grab ‘n Go” kit ready? - D.W. Thorne, K6SOJ
=================================================================
EMCOMM SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
=========================================================================EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS “License Plate”:
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EMERGENCY
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• View this item at: http://www.emcomm.org/products/
• Raised BLACK letters on WHITE background
• Durable metal
• 6” x 12” with usual holes for mounting
• Mount on vehicle or place on visor or in window• Space to "customize" with your county or city's name, or your call sign using one-inch vinyl letters(available at hardware stores)
• Use at fixed or field emcomm stations
• MADE IN U.S.A!
• $10.00 each or two for $18.00 [Postpaid to one address includes all applicable taxes]Send check or money order and shipping address to:
EMCOMM
P O Box 99
Macdoel, CA 96058
• Allow 2 weeks for delivery======================================================================TRAFFIC HANDLER'S SUPPLIES:
RADIOGRAM RUBBER STAMP
• Use on plain paper
• Use on front of envelope
• 3/4” x 3” wood handle stamp
Order: WRGS - Wood handle (traditional) rubber stamp $10.00 each postpaid
($8.00 if ordered with Message Service Cross stamp (below)
• Send check or money order to:
EMCOMM
P O Box 99
Macdoel, CA 96058
• Please allow 2 to 4 weeks for delivery• View this item (in use) at: http://www.emcomm.org/products/
"MESSAGE SERVICE CROSS" RUBBER STAMP
• Makes the “record” part of record message traffic handling easy and efficient.
• Use on any message form or on plain paper.
• A message received and forwarded should be stamped twice (L lower / R lower).
• Check TOR (Time Received) or TOD (Time Delivered / Forwarded).
• Available in two styles:
Order: SIRS - Self-inking rubber stamp - $15.00 each postpaid.
Order: WHRS - Wood handle (traditional) rubber stamp - $12.00 each postpaid.
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• Specify style, quantity, and shipping address, and send check or money order to:
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P O Box 99
Macdoel, CA 96058
• Please allow 2 to 4 weeks for delivery• View this item (in use) at: http://www.emcomm.org/products/=====================================================================NEW SUBSCRIBERS
• Michael Reeder, KC7QYR, Burien, WA
• John Pinkard, KD5KXJ, Carthage, MS - ARES®, RACES, MARS
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• Fred McAnn, K5FJM, Haughton, LA - ARES®, RACES
• Frederick Bray, W6WAW, Whittier, CA - Formerly with RACES, ARES®, and Red Cross.
• Eric Laird, KE5ISM, Bryan, TX - BEARS/BC-EOC
• Grant T. Nicholls, KB3FUT, Beaver Dams, NY - ARES®, RACES, ARMY MARS
• Steve Snyder, KI6EYQ, Corona, CA
• Ken Koch, KCØYAV, Eagan, MN - ARES®, RACES• Norb Sichterman, KFØXO, Rapid City, SD
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• John Stubblefield, KCØTBL, Monett, MO - ARES®
• Albert Furlow, KA1FFO, Severn, MD - ARES®, RACES, SKYWARN
• Jane Tate, KI6CHA, Albion, CA
• Dennis Bosley, WA1URS, Brewer, ME - ARES®
• Jeffrey Wacaser, KBØQKZ, Littleton, CO - ARES®
RECENT CONTRIBUTOR$ - Thank you for your support!(The individuals listed below have made recent donations to help EMCOMM MONTHLY and EMCOMM.ORG survive.)
OCTOBER SCOREREADERS: 1,500 +CONTRIBUTORS: Ø
SOS - SUPPORT OUR SUPPORTERS
When contacting these fine vendors... tell them EMCOMM MONTHLY sent you!
Auxiliary Emergency Radio Organization (AERO)
Contact: Dave Gomberg, NE5EE, San Francisco.
www.wcf.com/aero/funAnderson PowerPoles®, headsets, books, other items.
Proceeds go to support AERO.
Books, etc.
Jack (AC6FU) and Margaret (KE7AWA) Ruckman, Owners
www.hamradiobooks.com
ac6fu@arrl.net
(775) 577-2639
P.O. Box 309
Silver Springs, NV 89429
(Amateur Radio Books, ARRL patches, decals and other supplies)DC POWER, LLCwww.dcpwr.com
Wes (K7WWG) and Debbi Allen
(503) 531 4081
665 SW 167th Ave.
Beaverton, OR 97006
(Anderson Power Pole® Connectors and Accessories)EmComm-Products LLC
Robin (N7GSU) and Kathy (KD7OTY) Faulkner
http://www.emcomm-products.com/index.htm
(775) 521-6153
(775) 307-7101 (Fax)
PO Box 383
703 Sixth Street
Fossil, OR 97830-0383
(Manufacturer of the RADS 9-11 Rapid Antenna Deployment System)RDTechnologyRobert D. Miller, WA6MTYbobmiller@gbis.com
(775) 843-59523895 Corsair St., Suite E
Reno, NV 89502
(Dual Radio Sound Card Interface)EMCOMM.ORG and EMCOMM MONTHLY are free of paid commercial advertising and "pop-ups". However, we list vendors who offer products specifically of interest or value to the emcomm community and who make periodic contributions. If you would like your company to be listed in SOS - SUPPORT OUR SUPPORTERS send a brief mention of your company and its products (see examples above) and a donation to: EMCOMM, P. O. Box 99, Macdoel, CA 96058. If you have further questions, just ask.
REFERENCE and RESOURCE SECTION
• ICS-ARCT GUIDE: www.emcomm.org/ARCT/
• TRAFFIC HANDLER’S CHALLENGE: http://thc.emcomm.org.
• TRAINING ARCHIVES: www.emcomm.org/svares/training/
• PHONETICS: www.emcomm.org/svares/training/itu_phonetics_10_30_2001.htm
• ICAO RADIOTELEPHONE PROCEDURES: www.emcomm.org/svares/training/icao_procedure.htm
• NVIS PROPAGATION MAPS: http://www.w0ipl.net/ECom/NVIS/NVISprop.htm• GEAR AND EQUIPMENT LIST: www.emcomm.org (Click on GEAR CHECK LIST)• FEMA TRAINING COURSES: http://training.fema.gov/emiweb/IS/crslist.asp
• FEMA TRAINING COURSE IS-700 (NIMS): http://training.fema.gov/emiweb/IS/is700.asp
• ARRL FSD-218. The famous “pink card” that contains (almost) “everything you ever needed to know about RADIOGRAMS”.
An electronic version of FSD-218 is at: http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/forms/#fsd-218
• NTS page by W7ARC: http://www.w7arc.com/nts/
• NATIONAL TRAFFIC SYSTEM (NTS) Methods and Practices Guidelines: http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/nts-mpg/
• PACIFIC AREA TRAFFIC NETS: http://home.earthlink.net/~k7bfl/nwnets.html
• NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SKYWARN www.emcomm.org (click on SKYWARN or Links) or
Contact your EC or local SKYWARN coordinator for local net information.
• BEAUFORT WINDSPEED SCALE: http://www.zetnet.co.uk/sigs/weather/Met_Codes/beaufort.htm
• STANDARD TIME ZONE SCALE: http://www.travel.com.hk/region/timezone.htm
• HOSPITAL DISASTER SUPPORT COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM (HDSCS): http://members.aol.com/emcom4hosp/
• AERONAUTICAL INFORMATION MANUAL Chapter 6 - GROUND-TO-AIR EMERGENCY CODE and GROUND-TO-AIR (close-in) VISUAL SIGNALShttp://www.faa.gov/ATpubs/AIM/Chap6/aim0602.html
• U. S. AIR FORCE Search and Rescue SURVIVAL MANUAL MIRROR SIGNALING (AFM 64-5 Aug. 1969)
http://www.emcomm.org/drawings/Mirror_Signaling_mid.jpg
SUBSCRIBE TO EMCOMM MONTHLY www.emcomm.org/subscription.htm
ABOUT ADDRESS CHANGES: Every month a varying number of EM are returned as "undeliverable addressee unknown" or "rejected due to containing possible objectionable material". Our very limited all-volunteer staff does not have the time, energy, or desire to track down everyone who changes their email address and forgets to notify us. Also, if a subscriber installs a "spam filter" or a "parental control device" and neglects to tell the filter it that it's "OK to let EM pass through", we do not have time or patience to jump through secret hoops, or solve puzzles, to allow us to send email to you.If you change your email address be sure to notify us at: k6soj@wrrl.org ... that is, if you want to continue to receive EM.EMCOMM MONTHLY is originated in: 10, 12, 14, and 18 point Arial font and transmitted in HTML format. Occasionally selected portions are set up in the: Lucida Console font. HOWEVER...we have received a few reports that on some computer screens...EM appears unformatted in Plain Text or FUBAR. ("Fouled Up Beyond All Recognition.") If this happens to you, you can always view EM, as it is intended to appear, at: www.emcomm/org/em
Upon request EMCOMM MONTHLY will be transmitted in plain text format to visually impaired subscribers who use an email-to-audio conversion program, and/or other subscribers whose computers do not process email in HTML format.EMCOMM MONTHLY and EMCOMM.ORG are private (non-government) volunteer organizations funded solely by donations from emcomm operators who are concerned about preserving the ability of amateur radio operators to be prepared to provide skilled, accurate and efficient emergency communications during times of disaster or other events where normal channels of communication may be interrupted or overloaded. EMCOMM.ORG is advertisement and “pop up" free. If you have benefited from our efforts, and would like to support this work in a tangible way, you may do so by sending a check or money order payable to: EMCOMM.Mail to: EMCOMM, PO Box 99, Macdoel, CA 96058. Your donation is an outright gift and is NOT tax-deductible.The opinions expressed by individual contributors do not necessarily reflect the EM philosophy, the editorial position of EM or its staff.ARES® and Amateur Radio Emergency Service® are registered service marks of theAmerican Radio Relay League Inc., and are used with permission.
For permission to reproduce material in EMCOMM MONTHLY
contact: D. W. Thorne at: k6soj@wrrl.org or write:
EMCOMM MONTHLY, P.O. Box 99, Macdoel, CA 96058 U.S.A.EM STAFF:
D. W. Thorne, K6SOJ - Editor and Publisher - k6soj@wrrl.org
Jerry Boyd, N7WR - Associate Editor and ICS Advisor - n7wr@wrrl.orgBill Frazier, W7ARC - Associate Editor and Webmaster - w7arc@wrrl.org
Ed Ewell, K7DXV - Technical Advisor - k7dxv@wrrl.org
Ed Trump, AL7N - Traffic Editor and Alaska Correspondent - al7n@wrrl.org
Dave Nicholson, KB6PNT - SAR Advisor - kb6pnt@wrrl.org
COMING IN THE DECEMBER ISSUE OF EMCOMM MONTHLY:
• NEWS... FEATURES... FEEDBACK.... QSH... and MORE!• Episode V of "The Chronicles of of Nocandoo"
IN THE WORKS:
• DXers and EMCOMM• PROPAGATION and EMCOMM
• The FIELD OPERATION DISASTER PORTABLE STATIONEMCOMM MONTHLY -- The Official Journal of the World Radio Relay League - WRRL®Copyright (c) 2006 - All rights reserved.∙-∙-∙
