Perhaps we should consider a test with different NETs in the area. I think this would be very valuable. And the only way we can do that is by testing some simplex frequencies since the repeaters may not be functional after a Cascadia quake. However it's wise to have some established repeaters to use and check on in the event of Cascadia just in case they are working.<!--break-->
Local HAM Communications
We are tentatively meeting at 1830 (6:30pm) on Tuesdays on Frequency 146.980 (this frequency does require a CTCSS code-contact Chris Vardas for more information). We may move from this frequency soon if we confirm that we don't have privileges to use the repeater (we are trying to get resolution on this matter soon). Our back-up frequency, presently, is 145.230 which we go to after a few minutes of preamble and chat on the primary frequency listed above. Feel free to join us. We appreciate all input, experience and ideas on how to do this better.
ARES Communications
The state net Tuesdays xxxxx @ 2000
The D1 net every evening 147.32+at 1930
The McARES net Wed 146.840+ @ 1900
HAM Communications With the EOC
There will be a link to the EOC plan when it is available.
One Perspective
This is from a thread on PDX NET, a forum for Portland NETs, and was posted on March 1, 2006, by Lawrence Behmer.
NET communications is something that is a current high priority in our office. Patty Hopkins, who is our training program coordinator, and I will be working on all the details of the communication plan and protocols over the next two to three weeks. The quick details of the plan are that 3 person teams (2 amateur radio operators and 1 support person) will respond, first to the staging area to check in with the team leader, and then to the nearest fire station. This is where the communications equipment will be kept and maintained. This will be the group that communicates to us at the EOC. An additional amateur radio operator will be based at the teams staging location. As teams are dispatched in the field (remember, 1 leader with a 5 to 7 person span of control) they will communicate (and document) all important information back to the radio operator and team leader at the staging area. That person will forward the info to the radio team at the fire station. That team will get the information to us at the EOC.
Teams that are in the field with no communication are to utilize a runner to get that information to the staging area.
There are 2 sets of frequencies to communicate on. One frequency for communication between NET's in the field, at the staging area, and the fire station.....and one for communication with the fire station team and the EOC.
If you're worried about your team not having an amateur radio operator or not enough of them, don't. We have an agreement with ARES who are a group of local amateur radio operators to respond to teams within the context of the plan. Furthermore, there are more radio trained NET's than you might think, but we'll always take more.
Again, all the little details are being worked out and this has been going according to schedule. Communications plans are always being tweaked based off of a plethora of possibilities; needs, technology changes, practicality, etc.