When All Else Fails - Amateur Radio

 

Communication is an important part of preparedness. It is important to have a plan to communicate when telephone, cellular, and Internet systems fail in your area as the result of some type of disaster or infrastructure collapse. Amateur (Ham) radio is one of the most effective means of maintaining communication without the need to rely on commercial communications infrastructure. However, unlike using a cell-phone or sending a message on Facebook, amateur radio requires a bit more planning and practice. Amateur radio operators build and maintain their own communications infrastructure, as opposed to relying on commercial systems (although amateur radio systems can also be connected to both the cellular network and the Internet).  

At Cascadia Preparedness we encourage everyone to obtain their amateur radio license and learn to use their radios to communicate in an "off-grid" environment. The following on-line courses and videos provide an overview of amateur radio and an introduction to emergency communications.   

Basic Radio Awareness
* Basic Radio Awareness covers the foundations of critical communications, covering topics like communication, modulation, trunking, propagation, TDMA and FDMA, and more.

Best Practice for Radio Users
* This course focuses on end-user training for connecting and communicating clearly, safely, and efficiently on your radio.

Intro to Ham Radio (YouTube video 49:17 minutes)

An Introduction to Radios and Emergency Communication (YouTube video 21:24 minutes)

Kentucky ARES Emergency Communications Training
* This training course is offered at no cost to anyone interested in starting or refreshing their amateur radio emergency communication knowledge. The course is comprised of study materials and 3 exams and requires 2-5 hours depending on your reading speed. After successful completion of the course (all 3 exams), you will receive a PDF certificate.

ARRL EC-001: Introduction to Emergency Communication
* This course is designed to provide basic knowledge and tools for any emergency communications volunteer. The course has 6 sections with 28 lesson topics, and includes a selection of student activities, knowledge review quizzes, and a final assessment. The course is conducted entirely online and can be completed at your own pace, allowing you to work according to your own schedule.

ARRL (2012) 'Ham Radio - Getting the message through for your family and community.' (PDF)

Beginner’s guide to amateur (ham) radio for preppers

 

 

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