One of the unique features of our hobby is the ability to apply it in situations where emergency communications may be needed. Emergencies come in varying degrees, and can occur anywhere, at any time. A few years back, while waiting for a traffic light change at a very busy corner, I watched with alarm as a transport truck carrying a large piece of equipment proceeded to ride over the curb and become entangled in the traffic light standard. I was able to dial 911 (no prefix necessary) on my 2 metre mobile to inform the police, even before the truck proceeded to create a traffic jam.

Emergency radio service needs frequently occur at the most unexpected of times. Winter conditions are imminent, and currently we are living in “interesting” times! With this in mind, hams should adopt the Scouting movement motto and “Be Prepared”. And to borrow another motto, this from the Red Cross “The Life You Save Could Be Your Own”. This month, in consultation with Gord VE3EOS, I am including some suggestions as to how you can prepare yourself for a radio emergency situation.

It is probably also a good idea to have on hand at home, a supply of snack food and water for short term winter emergency conditions..

The following was initially designed as a Y2K rollover preparedness guide. It was included as one of my recommendations to Robert VE3ZLV for his ARES volunteer assistance to the Red Cross at the New York City WTC disaster.

As a civic minded amateur radio operator, you may want to consider some of the items listed below. Let’s keep in mind that part of out license privileges has to do with our radio capabilities to assist in emergencies. Why else the unique auto license with your call sign?

For use in an extended emergency situation. You might wish to modify to suit.

1. Documents:

· Amateur operators license and official access documents if available.

· Vehicle licence, drivers licence etc

· Medical prescriptions in the original labelled containers

· Any other needed identification.

2. Amateur Radio – One or more of HF - 2m/70cm, ( FRS radio pair - CB)

· Mobile sets recommended for higher power and greater range capability.

· Batteries -- Ni-Cad with 12V charge system,

· If you have a battery cartridge, a supply of 1.5V alkaline dry cells, in multiples of six.

· DC power cord with cigarette lighter plug. Preferably fused -Radio Shack Cat. 270-1533

· Gel pack or similar, for long term operation.

3. Radio related equipment:

· Plug in mic/speaker.

· 5/8 whip with Allen key to adjust and extra hex set screws for whip base.

· Spare coax cable with connectors.

· Various connectors PL 259, BNC PL258 coupler,

· 12 volt alligator clips to cigarette lighter plug-in for direct connect to car battery.

· Several 2 amp fuses, and others as required.

4. Recording materials.

· Steno pad, HB pencils, pen, etc.

5. Portable commercial Am –FM radio with fresh batteries available.

6. Lighting:

· Flashlight with fresh batteries available

· I2 volt plug in light

7. Basic first aid kit

· (home assembled) band aids, antiseptic, pain pills,

· chapstick., throat lozenges, and prescription medications. (See item 1 above)

8. Survival food:

· Chocolate bars, peppermints, granola, apples etc

· Liquid refreshments (Water, pop, juice )

9. Miscellaneous, for an extended period away from home:

· Extra clothes, tissue, deodorant, tooth brush, etc

· Large garbage bags, smaller plastic bags for water, protection of radio, etc.

10. Add your own ideas below.

· Keep a separate list for portable antenna rigs, generator, other major radio equipment

As you read this I am visiting friends in Sydney Australia, hopefully tuned in to the Sydney IRLP Reflector 5.