Emergency Communications

 Emergency Communications

Emergency communications involve the passing of urgent information to people in a crisis. This information may include warnings, alerts, curfew information, available rescue resources, evacuation details, and information that can help enhance the safety of individuals or communities of people.

Principles Of Effective Emergency Communications

1. Speedy- Emergency communications have to be done quickly to give people time to decide on an appropriate response

2. For emergency communications to be effective, the information passed has to be right. The accuracy of emergency information builds the credibility of the source. This can help save lives.

3. For effective emergency communications, the information must come from a credible source. The honesty of the person delivering the information is critical to the success of the crisis aversion procedures.

4. For emergency communications to be effective, the information passed has to promote action. People must respond according to the information for the communication to be helpful.

Emergency Communications In Amateur Radio

In emergency cases, amateur radio is used to supplement other communication media. Amateur radio communication can also be used as a sole method of communication in case other means of communication fail.

The wide distribution of amateur radio communication systems and operators makes a complete failure of the system almost impossible.

The amateur radio community (operators and enthusiasts) practice antennae and radio systems improvisational skills. Operators can rig up communication devices powered by available resources like car batteries. These skills help operators keep amateur radio communications up in crises.

All amateur radio frequencies are available for use during emergencies. However, VHF and UHF frequencies are preferred for communications covering a small area.

Requirements For Public Service And Emergency Communications Certification

For one to qualify to help in conducting amateur radio emergency communications, they need:

1.      A technician class amateur radio license is the minimum required operator’s license

2.      A general class amateur radio license gives the holder HF privileges that allow the operator to participate in emergencies where HF is used for communication.

3.      The amateur extra class amateur radio license gives the holder the know-how to handle antennas, radio waves, and electronics that is way above any other license class. This enables the holding operators to handle complex crises.

4.      Training courses on emergency amateur radio communications are offered to operators to help in specific emergencies.

Examples Of Amateur Radio Use In Emergency Communications

During the world trade center attacks on 11^th September 2001, amateur radio communications helped emergency personnel coordinate rescue operations. Phones, pagers, and most other wireless devices were of little use.

In 2005, amateur radio communications coordinated relief and rescue operations.

During Hurricane Maria, amateur radio operators helped coordinate relief efforts.