Ham Radio Operators Train for Emergencies to Support the Public:

Lynn Neece, a member of RF Wireless Amateur Radio Club of Burley, said that while field day is an opportunity for the public to learn about the hobby and how to get started, for members it is also a training exercise for responding to a natural disaster or other emergency. Members will experience what it is like to operate away from their normal home stations by being part of a simulated emergency that requires setting up under adverse conditions, including the use of emergency power and portable antennas. The exercise will provide a chance to test systems and practice emergency protocols that are necessary when regular communications are disrupted. Neece said he enjoys the technical side of the hobby and derives satisfaction from knowing that he would be able to help out neighbors in the event of emergency and reach his family in Pennsylvania. The RF Wireless Amateur Radio Club has been affiliated with the national organization, Amateur Radio Relay League, for a little over 30 years, Neece said. The local club has been active in providing introductory training and classes for members who want to earn entry-level licenses as well as advanced training. "Some, but not all, of the members are emergency-certified operators and are called up to provide services through the District 5 Emergency Operations Center (EOC)," he said. They provide communication support for the Red Cross and fire districts. On the Key Peninsula, regular EOC training takes place at fire station 47 in Home.

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