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                   Dedicated to Emergency Communications by RADIO
         EMCOMM  MONTHLY   
                        Official Journal of the World Radio Relay League
                           Where Every Month is "Preparedness Month"
                                                                  www.wrrl.org
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VOL.  4 -- No. 3               ONLINE: www.emcomm.org/em                   August  2007
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                               SUMMER TRAINING ISSUE
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
"LATE" NEWS and  IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO EM SUBSCRIBERS
The EM PHILOSOPHY - "Training Requirements"
SHORT CIRCUITS - Brief Items and Announcements
FEEDBACK,  MUSINGS and SPURIOUS EMISSIONS
The EM ADVISOR - "Q and A"
ICS PERSPECTIVES - by Jerry Boyd, N7WR
WRRL NEWS and NETS
TRAFFIC HANDLING
NETWORK NEWS - "N.E.T.S."
SHOW US YOUR SHACK
FEATURE -  HONE YOUR 'PHONE OPERATING SKILLS - Part III
EMCOMM SPECIALTY ITEMS - Stuff for Sale
NEW SUBSCRIBERS and CONTRIBUTORS
SUPPORT OUR SUPPORTERS
REFERENCE and RESOURCE SECTION
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"LATE" NEWS
This is the second month in a row that EM has been late.  Once again (without our knowledge of, or consent to do so), our ISP (we have a choice of one vendor where WRRL HQ is located) has "blacklisted" EMCOMM MONTHLY as "SPAM".  Also our SECURE SERVER has placed a limit on the number of e-mailings we can send out within any month.  That is, until we "forked over" an extra $140.00 for one year.  We paid the tribute money on August 1, but as of August 3 - 1700 PDT we still could not get EM to send.

 ! IMPORTANT ! -  We are currently exploring some other options.  Due to new anti-spaming laws and policies, EMCOMM SUBSCRIBERS may receive an email message within the next month asking them to verify that they are bona fide subscribers.
 
All of this insanity only serves to further convince us that it is a HUGE mistake for anyone to count on the internet for even one segment of emcomm.  For daily routine communications, it normally works OK, but for emergency communications we choose to rely solely upon radio.
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The EM PHILOSOPHY 
"TRAINING REQUIREMENTS"

There has been an ongoing debate the past few months between various emcomm leaders as to what training requirements should be made for members of this, that, or the other amateur emcomm groups.  Proposals range from minimal (must have a ham license and be breathing), to extensive (must take all ARECC courses, NIMS/ICS courses, plus CPR, first aid and more).  Any training beyond radio communications skills has merit to a greater or lesser degree depending upon what it is.
 
Some of the arguments presented as to why volunteers should jump through a bunch of additional training (and other) hoops is to allow their organization to tap into government (tax payers') monies.*  While the WRRL is not lining up for government funding, WRRL ARCTs still must comply with whatever local or state authorities require in the jurisdiction(s) in which they are deployed.  (ARCTs sponsored by other organizations may vary in their requirements.)

With or without tax-payer funding, some propose that emcomm units should, "let the served agencies determine the training requirements for emcomm operators."  
We wonder just how many emergency managers would be interested in setting the training requirements for postal workers?  And, how the U.S.P.S. would react if they were told that a "manager" from some outside agency would now be setting their training criteria?  Far fetched?  Not really.  What many emcomm leaders fail to realize is that as far as we are concerned, amateur radio emcomm is to provide a message delivery service, on behalf of third parties, when other means of communication fail or are overloaded.  This holds true whether the messages are tactical or formal.

Further, we have yet to hear any "served agency" require that emcomm radio amateurs actually know how to originate, relay, and deliver record message traffic.  Or for that matter, know how to properly communicate tactical message traffic.  Few emergency managers have ever seen a RADIOGRAM or have any idea as to what record message traffic is, much less requiring that those who are providing emcomm know how to do it.  Our primary job is to provide effective radio communications.  Everything else is secondary.  What do you think about this for a requirement?  "In addition to knowing the basic skill of message handling, every emcomm operator must know how to set up a field station, provide a makeshift emergency power source, and know how to cut a simple half-wave dipole for 40 or 80 meters?"  (Without looking in a book!)
 
The universal RADIOGRAM is the fundamental tool for all radio message communications.  It has been in used for about 150 years and will work in any mode, for any precedence, and works for private agencies, government agencies, and messages originated by the general public.  This basic and essential skill is the first step towards becoming an effective emcomm operator.  Sadly it is being bypassed and ignored by many emcomm operators...and their leaders!
 
As Ed "FB" Trump, AL7N once said: "Just give us the d--- message, and we'll deliver it!"
 
If you would like to assess your traffic handling skills, take the TRAFFIC HANDLER'S CHALLENGE AT:  http://thc.emcomm.org
(Your test results will NOT be posted unless/until you grant permission.)

* Remember "The Golden Rule"  -- "He that has the gold...makes the rules."
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SHORT CIRCUITS

SPAMCOMM MONTHLY?

You may have noticed that the July issue of EM was late.  Unbeknownst to us, our ISP (which is the only server for our area) had installed
(yet another) new SPAM FILTER device.  It blocked scores of email messages, both inbound and outbound, including EMCOMM MONTHLY.  Of course it was on a week end, so no one was available to remedy the problem.

Further, each month after EM is dispatched, several "rejection" notices are received, politely informing us that our material would not pass this or that person's spam filter.  Sorry readers, when that happens we just don't have the time to track down the subscriber and inform him/her that EM is being blocked.

More and more internet service providers (ISPs) are installing "SPAM filters" in their systems that may block EMCOMM MONTHLY both inbound or outbound (if you try to forward it to someone).  To ensure that you receive EM and SPECIAL BULLETINS, add: @cot.net, @wrrl.org, and @emcomm.org to your "Whitelist" with your ISP.  Contact your ISP if you have any questions.

So, it is your responsibility to make sure your ISP will pass EM.   Also, if you change your email address, you will not receive EM unless you let us know.  All that is needed is a short message with the words "email address change" in the subject line.  And be sure to state your name and call sign.

EMCOMM "LICENSE PLATES" ... NOW IN STOCK!
A new supply of our popular EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS "license plates" was recently received.  These black on white aluminum plates are looking for permanent homes on mobile emcomm rigs, other comm units, and on the doors and walls of radio shacks.  For more information: www.emcomm.org/products

NATURAL HAZARDS OBSERVER
The Natural Hazards Observer is a bi-monthly, free (to subscribers in the United States) publication by the Natural Hazards Center at the University of Colorado at Boulder.  Each issue is loaded with a wide range of scholarly articles relative to disaster relief and emergency management.  Subscribe or read it online at: www.colorado.edu/hazards/

MISSISSIPPI EMCOMM UNITS PREPARE FOR HURRICANE SEASON
To Mississippi Hams re Hurricane Season.
From:  Malcolm Keown, W5XX, ARRL Section Manager
Vicksburg, Mississippi - July 31, 2007

So far the Atlantic Basin has been quiet, but historically we are now on the steep up slope to the peak of the Hurricane Season.
This is the time to check generators and go-kits.  In addition, the Mississippi Section Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) should be reviewed by everyone
intending to participate in an emergency communications response to a hurricane landfall.  The EOP can be downloaded on the Section Web Site at
www.arrlmiss.org.  Focus should be on Section 5.4 Regional Communications.

As you are aware, Mississippi has an MOU with Arkansas, Louisiana, and Tennessee to handle tactical communications during wide area storm events
by activating the Delta ARES Emergency Net on 3890/7275.  K5BOC is the Manager of this Net.  In addition, Mississippi has an MOU in place with
Louisiana and South Texas to provide assistance to the West Gulf ARES Emergency Net (3873/7285) if the hurricane landfall is along the Louisiana/Texas Coasts.

Further, the Managers of the Magnolia Section Net (AD5J) and the Mississippi Section Phone Net (K5NRK) have developed a Joint Emergency Operation Procedure (Attachment C of the EOP) such that 3862 will be manned during storm events.  The Nets will meet at their regular times after which they will maintain an "open net" with an NCS always on frequency until the next net starts. The MSN/MSPN will handle primarily health/welfare traffic, but will accommodate message traffic overflow from the tactical net.

In addition, RN5 and Mississippi Traffic Net Manager KB5W has organized the Gulf Coast CW Guard Net which will maintain watch on 3570/7111 on the hour
and half hour to handle Health/Welfare (H/W) Traffic providing an outlet to the NTS.  On SSB, DRN5 Manager WB5ZED will maintain a Guard Net on 3850/7280 for H/W Traffic.  As Lord Baden-Powell said, 'Be Prepared'."
 
(Submitted by Frank Thrash, W4DLZ, WRRL 18)

 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR AMATEUR RADIO HIRES EMERGENCY MANAGER
Dennis Dura, K2DCD, of Trenton, NJ, has joined the National Association for Amateur Radio/ARRL Headquarters staff as their new Emergency Preparedness and Response Manager.  Full details are available at:  http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2007/07/31/101/?nc=1.
(Dennis is a subscriber to EMCOMM MONTHLY.  We wish him the very best in what will be a very formidable task.)
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SPECIAL MESSAGE TO EMCOMM MONTHLY SUBSCRIBERS:
 Our SECURE SERVER ISP informed us today (August 1) that since the circulation of EMCOMM MONTHLY is approaching  2000, we now must pay an extra $140.00 for mass e-mailings (up to 2500 a month).  Everything is going up!  Except our donations.  In June we received one $5.00 donation.  No contributions were received in July.   If every EM subscriber would just take a few minutes, drop one "green stamp" ($1.00) into an envelope and mail it to EMCOMM, P.O. Box 99, Macdoel, CA  96058, once a year, our annual budget would be covered.  Thank you.

 (EMCOMM MONTHLY is an "all volunteer" effort, and does not accept (nor solicit) tax-payers' monies and/or commercial display advertising.)
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 FEEDBACK, MUSINGS and SPURIOUS EMISSIONS
FROM "THE LONE STAR STATE"
"I love your publication and have sent a link to all four of my people.  I think there is a lot to be learned here.  One suggestion I have for future articles, how about something on how the "little guys" can work better.  I live in a county of less than 10,000 people and I have exactly 4 other operators that I can draw from.  Most are retired (I'm close) and have some time to help out, but we have extremely limited resources in people and equipment. We have an HF station, VHF/UHF station, CB/FRS/GMRS station, and no digital at all.  We DO have a great radio room with emergency power (as long as the basement doesn't flood).  I'm looking for things we can do to better use what we have.  Thanks much." - William (Bill) Albert, AD5TD, Emergency Communications Officer Refugio County EOC, Texas

EDITOR'S REPLY:  Thanks for your comments and suggestions, Bill.  I suggest that you invite your four people to subscribe to EM.  Refugio County sounds like my kind of place, and I have wanted to visit Padre Island for a long time.  I even like the name "Refugio" (refuge).  That is what we call our little (80 acre) wilderness parcel in the high desert of Northern California.  It is a wildife refuge and the only things we raise are dogs, cats, jackrabbits and a few antennas.

Anyway, back to emcomm.  Bigger is not necessarily better.  There is a LOT a small cohesive group can do.  If you are not already doing so, here are few suggestions:
 
1.  Learn and practice radio relay work and message traffic handling on a regular basis using the universal message format.
     (Suggestion: Invest $10 in our RADIOGRAM TRAINING DVD.  See EMCOMM SPECIALTY PRODUCTS below.)
2.  Participate in public service and traffic nets on a regular basis.
3.  Form a TYPE 3 ARCT. (Refer: http://www.emcomm.org/ARCT  and http://www.wrrl.org/arct_program )
     (NOTE: WRRL only registers TYPE I ARCTS, but you can make yourself available to the STX ARES®.)
4.  Join the WRRL, and join us in our nets.
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FROM "THE FIRST STATE"
"After posting the letter in Emcomm Monthly (June EM) and hoping to hear from like-minded individuals on the subject of emcomm and possibly putting together a response team, I have not received one call or email.  All I can conclude from this tremendous lack of response is we have a lot of "talk," but no action here in Delmarva*.  I know that the Delaware section manager and the Section Emergency Coordinator both subscribe, but neither sent a response or an inquiry.  As I have been saying for some time, we are in deep doo-doo when the big one hits.  Meanwhile, I am doing what I can to keep ready.  Making sure I have a go kit, a five day food supply (at "normal" eating levels), fresh water, emergency power (two generators, one propane and one gas), keeping the maintenance current on the vehicles, etc.  Of course, there will always be instances that all the preparation in the world is not enough, but for most situations, I feel I'm about as prepared as I can get.  So, maybe there will only be one signal reaching the west coast just after our "disaster".  I hope not, but with the lack of response, I can only wonder."  - Jerry Palmer, N3KRX, Houston, Delaware

EDITOR'S COMMENT:  Thanks Jerry for your efforts and please don't give up.  New ideas are often slow to catch on...especially if they are not high tech and don't involve a lot of fancy "bells and whistles."   There are a few encouraging rumblings around the country that indicate that some people are beginning to wake up as to the value of ARCT resource typing for emcomm.  (California, Texas, Utah. to name a few.)  We are hoping that with a few implementing the ARCT system...it will then begin to "snowball".  Below is an excerpt from a message (the full text is in EMCOMM ADVISOR, below) I recently sent to a WRRL member in Utah, where there is some interest in the SLC area.

"The concept of a self-contained and "ready to roll" emcomm team that can go to a disaster area and, within hours have a five (or more) station network operational, including the hub (the TYPE 2 part), and four or more (TYPE 3 or 4) stations operating at locations most needed and accessible to anyone (or any agency) who needs to send or receive a message, of any precedence, whether it is TACTICAL or FORMAL is finally beginning to take root.  A TYPE I team is not there to "take over".  If there are local amateur resources available...it is intended to interface and cooperate with them as much as possible."
The main thing to remember is:  Keep focused on RADIO and good verbal and written communication skills.

* Delmarva: the peninsula of Delaware, Maryland and Virginia which would be isolated if the six bridges all went down at the same time.  Of those six, two cross the Chesapeake Bay, four cross the C and D Canal.  Only two are major routes.
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FROM THE MOUNTAIN STATE
"I was checking the emcomm.org site and saw the net listings. I am not sure if your list is only west coast related or if that is the only area where anyone has supplied listings. I did see that you request information for other emcomm nets.  Please add the nets listed below.  (It goes without saying that these nets will also activate as needed." - Robert Ott, WB8OIF, Bunker Hill, WV

COMMENT:  We no longer list local nets because the list was getting too long and it was too hard to keep it up to date.  (People were failing to report changes, etc.)
But we are glad to make an mention of your local nets in this issue and will add the West Virginia Mountain State Emergency Net on 3865 kHz to our state and regional and national emcomm net list.  -  Editor

WEST VIRGINIA EMCOMM NETS: (Times are ETZ)
Mountain State Emergency Net 3865 kHz first Thursday of each month following close of the WV Fone Net (typically at 1815 or later depending on traffic.
Jefferson County ARES®, RACES 147.255 rptr (no CTCSS) each Sunday at 2030
WV Eastern Region ARES 147.255 rptr (no CTCSS) each Monday at 2000
WV District 6 ARES 147.390 rptr (123.0 CTCSS) each Sunday at 2130
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INFLUENCE THE EXTRA CLASS TEST

"Readers of EMCOMM Monthly have a chance to promote emergency communications in amateur radio testing.

"The Question Pool Committee (QPC) of the National Conference of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (NCVEC) is putting together a new Extra Class question pool
(Element 4).  I encourage readers to submit emcomm-related questions to be considered for inclusion in the Extra Class test. Be sure to follow the guidelines found below.

"Since the QPC is expected to announce the new question pool on December 1, 2007, you should e-mail your submission to qpcinput@ncvec.org by the end of August. Include "Extra Class Test" or similar phrase in the e-mail's subject line.

"Save your submissions; after the Extra pool is released, the Technician pool will come up for review.  The new Extra Class pool is scheduled to become effective July 1, 2008.

"According to the NCVEC website, please provide the following in your submission:

(1) Questions must have no more than 210 characters, including spaces, or a maximum of three 70 character lines.

(2) Answers must be no more than 140 characters, including spaces, or two 70 character lines in length.

(3) Each question must be accompanied by 4 possible answers. The answers may be in any order, but the correct answer must be indicated.

(4) Provide resource or Part 97 rule to support correct answer or explanation of the correct answer.

"Happy question writing." - Grant Olsen, KCØVTY, Boone, IA -- (NOTE: I have no affiliation with the QPC or NCVEC.)

EM COMMENTS:  Thanks Grant.  We hope that some of our readers will submit some good and relevant questions.  FCC Part 97.1 "Basic and purpose" of the amateur service) lists emergency communications first, followed by "...advancing skills in both the communications and technical phases of the art," and "Expansion of the existing reservoir within the amateur radio service of trained operators, technicians, and electronics experts.", we would like to see some questions in ALL the pools about proper emcomm and voice* net operating procedures, knowing ITU Phonetics, and traffic handling (RADIOGRAMS).  Also some questions such as knowing the formula how to cut a 1/2 wave antenna (468/frequency in MHz).  Maybe even some questions requiring some basic calculations or about safe operation of gas generators. - Editor

* Forget International Morse.  The "essential language" has already been thrown overboard.
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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 NIMS/ICS 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.asp
Before 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.
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Q:  This subject came up on our net this week. It looks like there is some interest in Salt Lake ARES® to be involved or to organize a team.  What words of wisdom can you offer to us when organizing an ARCT Program? - Jim Samuels, K6TUG, WRRL 168

A:  That would be great!  Most of what is needed is pretty simple and has already pretty well been laid out. I assume you have studied these two WebPages:
http://www.emcomm.org:80/ARCT/ and (especially if the ARCT is to be WRRL coordinated): http://www.wrrl.org/arct_program/
 
One question that has come up a few times is:  "Are all members of a WRRL TYPE I ARCT required to join the WRRL?"  The answer is no, but we highly encouraged/recommend it.  They must, however still meet the WRRL membership requirements such being capable of handling message traffic in at least one mode. (In order to wear the WRRL patch or pin they must be members.)  However, the ARCT's leaders must be members of the WRRL in good standing.
 
You will need 24-30 (or more) trained, skilled and equipped operators for a roster.  This ensures (hopefully) that 12 will be available when needed.
Your roster should identify any "specialists" you have on the team (beyond the basic requirements).

A WRRL Type I Team is self-funding.  Any (legal) way you choose to fund it is OK.  Actually, there should be very little costs involved, since most skilled operators that are serious about emcomm already are well equipped.  ARCT members must also comply with whatever local or state authorities require in the jurisdiction(s) in which they are deployed.  If this is outside the team's home state...our experience has been that the "red-tape"can usually be cut quite easily in disaster situations, once officials realize that the ARCT is a capable, competent, cohesive, (and requested) self-contained team.
 
There is NO requirement that a team be always available to deploy any great distance.  If travel costs are involved (fuel, air fare, etc.), then that is up to each team to fund and/or arrange.  For example, if your team was deployed to the Gulf Coast, you may be able to arrange flight with the CAP or form a convoy.  We allow for a fair amount of autonomy.  WRRL Team members answer to their team leaders.  Only the team leader(s) report to our (inter)national ARCT coordinator.
 
The concept of a self-contained and "ready to roll" emcomm team that can go to a disaster area and, within a few hours, have a five (or more) station network operational, including the hub (the TYPE 2 part), and four or more (TYPE 3 or 4) stations operating at stategic locations (where most needed) and that are accessible to anyone (or any agency) who needs to send or receive a message, of any precedence, whether it is TACTICAL or FORMAL, is finally beginning to take root.  A TYPE I team is not there to "take over" from local emcomm leaders.  If there are local amateur resources available...the TYPE I ARCT will interface and cooperate with them as much as possible
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Q:  First, let me say how much I look forward to each issue of EM. You and your staff do a great service!  Regarding the N.E.T.S. frequencies, I would like to know if you would consider having a monthly or bi-weekly exercise or net on one of the published frequencies?  Not a local-level net, but a national net for allowing the interested emcomm operators to check equipment and see results.  The other benefit would be networking with other operators that at least show a commitment by checking in...after all, these will probably be the same operators that will be on frequency if things go bad. It is always helpful to be familiar with the operator you will deal with under emergency conditions. Your thoughts? - Robert Ott, WB8OIF, Bunker Hill, WV

A: The WRRL 20 meter Monday net (see below) is open to all emcomm operators world-wide.  WRRL members are called first by FEMA Region, followed by a call for emcomm stations anywhere.  (Daytime propagation on 20 meters has been poor lately, therefore all the more need to practice relay work.)
One of our goals is to have a daily 40 meter ssb nets at noon (1200) in each time zone.  (Traffic can then be forwarded from east to west for the noon net in the next time zone.)

The Jefferson Noon Net (JNN) is in it's twelfth year and meets daily on 7214± SSB (3987± alternate) at 1200 PTZ (Pacific Time Zone).  It's primary service area is the Pacific Time Zone although we welcome (and have several regular) stations in the MTZ (Mountain Time Zone).  After check-ins are logged, a short roundtable is conducted for weather reports, signal reports, bulletins, etc.  At 1230, a call is made for MESSAGE TRAFFIC.  This net has proven a good training ground for operators as well as new net control operators.

The purpose of the JNN is primarily public service and traffic.  But it is not strictly public service and traffic.  Although there is little actual message traffic, the net is intended to demonstrate, train for, prepare for, and maintain traffic net discipline.

One of the reasons that the JNN has been so successful is that we have been (somehow) able to blend a structured net with an element of social interaction.
This "blend" is a tight-rope that we must all walk if we are to maintain the net's unique character.  I say that "all nets are training nets".  They either train operators in the skills necessary for proficient traffic handling and net operations, or they re-enforce a variety of poor and sloppy operating habits.  (Monkey see...monkey do!)

We would like to see such a daily emcomm "noon net" in the ETZ, CTZ and eventually in the MTZ.  We have received a few indications of interest in starting an Eastern Time Zone (ETZ) SSB Noon Net (ETZNN), but so far no one has stepped forward and offered to take on the task of serving as a net manager.  Being a net manager requires an adequate HF station plus it takes time, dedication, and enough leadership ability to work with others and perform chores such as setting up a schedule net control stations. - Editor

NOTE: EM readers who may be interested in serving as a NET MANAGER for a "noon net" in the ETZ, CTZ or MTZ, contact: k6soj@wrrl.org 
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ICS PERSPECTIVES
By Jerry Boyd, N7WR, Associate Editor and ICS Advisor
(Jerry is on summer leave.  He will resume ICS Perspectives next month.)
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WRRL NEWS and NETS:  "EMCOMM WITHOUT BORDERS."
∙ WRRL NET on  MONDAYS on 14.280 MHz USB (Alternate: 14.270 or somewhere "in between.")
   2000Z (SUMMER) 2100Z (WINTER)
∙ REGIONAL NETS:
    Pacific and Mountain Time Zones: Daily at 1200 PTZ on 7220 kHz (7214 and 3987 alternate) JNN
    Eastern Time Zone:  Daily at 1200 ETZ  (in planning stage)
∙ WRRL STATION MAP UPDATE
   Map showing the location of WRRL stations can be viewed at: http://www.wrrl.org/map/  
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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.”
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TAKE THE TRAFFIC HANDLER'S CHALLENGE AT:  http://thc.emcomm.org
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 TRAFFIC HANDLER'S SUPPLIES:  http://www.emcomm.org:80/products/
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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 (Handling Instructions) • 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)
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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
•   3987 kHz
•   5332 kHz "Up" to other 60M channels as necessary. 50W maximum ERP. (Activated during actual incidents.)
•   7220 kHz
• 14280 kHz
• ALASKA ONLY: 5167.5 kHz (USB emergency traffic only)

CW:
•   1911 kHz
•   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
• LOCAL EMCOMM SIMPLEX - 146.55 MHz
• RED CROSS LOCAL EMCOMM SIMPLEX - 147.42 MHz
• NATIONAL CALLING SIMPLEX - 146.52 MHz 

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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"SHOW US YOUR SHACK" 
• "SHOW US YOUR SHACK" is at: http://www.emcomm.org/em/shacks/
• Send a picture of you AND your shack (all in one frame and in JPG or JPEG format) to: k6soj@wrrl.org
∙ - ∙ - ∙
 FEATURE SECTION
HONE YOUR 'PHONE OPERATING SKILLS - Part III*
(An EM basic studies training module)
"MIS-MANNERS"

We remember one sheriff's dispatcher we used to hear that began every dispatch to a patrol unit with:  "Unit ----, could you please respond to ---- ----?"
Public service radio dispatch is not about social-scene politeness.  It is about clear (unmistakable), concise, standardized procedures and operator discipline.  This could be called radio courtesy.

With all due respect, amateur radio emcomm and public service voice communications (including Morse and keyboard modes...although the problem is mostly limited to 'phone transmissions) is not about garden party etiquette.

Hams have a long tradition of loving to "yak it up."  We've all heard long-winded "blow-hards" drone on and on for what seemed like hours on end.  Rattling on and on about some subject in which no one (except them) had any interest.  (Sometimes, not even the person on the other end of the QSO.)  We've even heard operators in emcomm or traffic nets make their transmissions as wordy as they possibly could.  Sorry campers, but this type of boring rhetoric has no place in emcomm or traffic nets.

A few months ago we asked:  "Do you have a 'pet peeve' or operating gripe?
If so, send it to us.  Space permitting...we will publish any that are appropriate and useful."

Here are a few miscellaneous tips for proper and effective 'phone operation.  So...if the shoe fits....
 
Avoid Wordiness and Redundundunduncy.  (This one is far too common.)
Whoever started this inane and obnoxious style of operating should get 40 lashes with a Cat-o'-RG8-tails!  Avoid frequent and inappropriate use of terms such as "here" and "there," and "at this time."   Example: "The current weather report for here at this location is _________ at this time.  What is the current weather there at your location at this time?"   (NOTE: This is a voice-only phenomena and would never be sent on CW.)

Avoid excessive use of terms of endearment.
"Real good ol' buddy," or "you're comin' in here like gang busters."  This gets old very quickly with most seasoned and skilled operators.  Leave that lingo and jargon for the CBers and lids.


Avoid "butting in" and/or interjecting unnecessary comments.
Comments such as "73 ol' buddy have a nice day"  (unidentified of course), after the NCS has acknowledged a station, or after a station has ended his/her transmission, is a bad habit and only slows down a net and causes confusion.  (What if everyone did it?)  If you wish to make a contact, say "contact" or your call sign (or hail sign if in Morse) and wait until recognized by net control.  (The term "break" should be reserved for emergency traffic only.)

Another common "gripe" is:  People who checking into a net by "proxies."
Example: "Check me into the net tonight.  I'm going bowling!"
You are either participating and available in a net...or you are NOT.  It is acceptable (if you must) to have another operator say:  "Elmer, W1--- said to tell everyone hello and that he's sorry he can't be on the net tonight.  He will be on next week."

Another common example of poor operating is the failure to identify at the end of transmission (when a station/operator is done and/or is not expected to return to the net within ten minutes.)

If we all use the proword "OVER"... and there will be a lot less guesswork and  "doubling".
(On CW, Morse operators always (well almost always) send the prosign: "K" or "KN")


Establish two-way contact before you start yakking.  (Not needed on repeaters with a "courtesy tone".)
ALWAYS make sure that the calling station doesn't have some urgent message before you launch into a long spiel.*)
 
If someone says "I have EMERGENCY traffic."  (9 out of 10 times these are NOT an actual emergency).   Ask "state the emergency?"
Example: Reporting a stranded motorist is not an emergency...unless of course the motorist is well along in labor!

All these examples of poor operating on 'phone would be avoided if operators would first ask yourself:

"Would I send all that I am saying if I were on CW?"

 TACTICAL CALL SIGNS -- HOW, WHY and WHEN?

FOR REVIEW -
• OPERATING PROCEDURES:  www.wrrl.org:80/operating/
• PHONETICS: www.wrrl.org/operating/itu_phonetics.htm

*HONE YOUR 'PHONE OPERATING SKILLS Part I was in the February 2007 EM: www.emcomm.org/em/february2007.htm
  HONE YOUR 'PHONE OPERATING SKILLS Part II was in the March 2007 EM:  www.emcomm.org/em/march2007.htm


** Spiel:  "to talk volubly or extravagantly."

======================================================
EMCOMM SPECIALTY PRODUCTS:

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 ea. and includes protective case, study and instructor's guide.  $5.00 for extra DVD (disc only) to same address.  $18.00 for two complete sets to one 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
MORE EMCOMM SPECIALTY PRODUCTS AT:
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(The individuals listed below have recently made monetary contributions to help EMCOMM MONTHLY and EMCOMM.ORG survive.)
•  No contributions were received in July.
 
EMCOMM MONTHLY and EMCOMM.ORG are private (non-government, non-commercial) endeavors and are 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.
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When contacting these fine vendors... tell them EMCOMM MONTHLY sent you!

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 www.wcf.com/aero/fun
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 http://www.emcomm-products.com/index.htm
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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/
• WRRL ARCT Page www.wrrl.org/arct_program/
• TRAFFIC HANDLER’S CHALLENGE: http://thc.emcomm.org
• TRAINING ARCHIVES: www.emcomm.org/svares/training/
• OPERATING PROCEDURES:  www.wrrl.org/operating/
• PHONETICS: www.wrrl.org/operating/itu_phonetics.htm
• RADIOTELEPHONE PROCEDURES: www.wrrl.org/operating/icao_radiotelephony.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
• MARITIME MOBILE SERVICE NETWORK: http://mmsn.org/
• NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SKYWARN www.emcomm.org (click on SKYWARN or Links) or
  Contact your 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/ 
• 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
 
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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 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 archives:  www.emcomm.org/em
 
SEARCH FEATURE AT EMCOMM.ORG  www.emcomm.org 
 
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 the
American 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.org
Bill 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
∙ - ∙ - ∙
IN THE SEPTEMBER ISSUE OF EMCOMM MONTHLY:
• "The Chronicles of Nocandoo" -- Episode X
• NEWS... FEATURES... FEEDBACK.... QSH... and MORE!

IN THE WORKS:
• DXers and EMCOMM
• The FIELD OPERATION DISASTER PORTABLE STATION
 
EMCOMM MONTHLY -- The Official Journal of the World Radio Relay League - WRRL®
Copyright (c) 2007 - All rights reserved.
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