09/06/2024
September is National Preparedness Month, and ARRL is working to help radio
amateurs have a plan for family resilience. Many hams enjoy public service as
part of their operating. Being ready to activate for a served agency through
the ARRL Amateur Radio Emergency Service¨ (ARES¨) involves not only being
licensed and trained, but also prepared and equipped.
ARRL Director of Emergency Management Josh Johnston, KE5MHV, suggests that hams
and their families have a "go-bag". He says there are a few things to consider:
"You need to be able to function while activated, so that means you need a kit
for your needs and a kit for your radio needs. If your family is impacted by
the situation, they also need to have some gear at the ready."
On the ARRL website, there's an Emergency Prep Kit Checklist[1]. It lists the
common items such as food and water for several days, a first aid kit,
medications, chargers for your devices and other useful items.
Having a kit for your radio is useful as well. "Go kits will vary based on
function and need for the field," said Johnston. "Most kits should include a
dual band HT and/or mobile radio with antenna, a power supply and all necessary
cables and connectors. Every kit should include note pad or paper of some type
as well as pens or pencils. You should have a power source and power cables. If
you are working HF then you will need an HF radio and antenna, and if you want
digital capabilities, then a computer with software preloaded will be desired."
Other things you may want will include tape and tools, spare batteries,
headphones, flashlights of some sort, cell phone chargers, and a multimeter.
Other items that won't fit in a bag but may be needed include a generator, a
working surface like a small folding table, a chair, and some type of shelter.
Need a bag for your go kit? Consider the ARRL Gray Canvas Backpack[2]. $30.00
in the ARRL Store.
[1]
https://home.arrl.org/action/Store/Product-Details/productId/2012007374
[2]
https://home.arrl.org/action/Store/Product-Details/productId/133853
---
þ Synchronet þ Whiskey Lover's Amateur Radio BBS