The recent hurricanes causing major damage in the southern states provided real-life examples of the value of amateur radio during an emergency. In preparation for the net I located an online article summarizing the situation, and will read two paragraphs:
Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact on communication infrastructure highlighted the crucial role of amateur radio operators. When all other systems failed, ham radio operators coordinated vital communications and relayed critical information during the disaster. Their efforts proved invaluable in rescue operations, helping to save lives and coordinate relief efforts in the storm’s aftermath.
The hurricane’s destruction left many areas without power or cellular service, making traditional communication methods unreliable. Amateur radio operators stepped in, using their skills and equipment to bridge the communication gap. They provided a lifeline for emergency responders, government agencies, and affected communities, demonstrating the enduring importance of this technology in crises.
Here is a link to the rest of the article: Continue reading.
Northern Utah has its own hazards to prepare for, but I believe the response to an emergency in our area would be similar. Radio operators will take to the airwaves to provide necessary communications, using voice and data channels to pass damage reports and resource requests to the responders best suited to help with each request.
As we work to prepare for an actual emergency in our own area, here are a few things to consider:
If your city has an EOC, or your local congregation has an organized team of communicators, contact these groups to find out what frequencies they use and program them into your radios. Earlier this year Cache County ARES solicited frequency assignments from the active communications groups and updated their database. A link to that database is here.
Plan for operations during a power outage. Obtain extra batteries for your handheld radios and if possible buy batteries with USB charging capabilities. It's also a good idea to pick up a rechargeable battery with a USB output to allow you to recharge your handheld batteries to stay on the air even longer.
For a base station, battery backup power is as affordable as ever. The higher wattage output of a base station coupled with an antenna at a higher elevation will provide for excellent range on simplex frequencies.
Regularly test your radios on your backup power system in order to know exactly what you can expect should an emergency occur.
This is just a short list of preparations. I encourage each of you to research emergency power options for your radios to maintain communications should an emergency occur.