ARES Southern New Jersey Section
|
|
What Is ARES?
Bob Keogh, KD2NEC : Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
|
Quoted from the ARRL website : "The Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES) consists of licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment, with their local ARES leadership, for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes." To learn more about ARES, visit the ARRL page at www.arrl.org/ares. If you are interested in becoming an ARES member in Gloucester County, contact Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator Bob Keogh, KD2NEC at kd2nec@qsl.net |
Emergency Coordinators
Atlantic County : Dave Larcombe, KD2KVZ
Burlington County : Chris Canatella, KC2GNQ
Camden County : Tim Carvis, WB9ULP
Cumberland County : Mike Harla, N2HMO
Gloucester County : Bob Keogh, KD2NEC
Mercer County : John Pugh, WJ3P
Ocean County : Bob Murdock, WX2NJ
Salem County : Charlie Olinda, N2SRQ
Assistant Section Emergency Coordinator/American Red Cross Liaison (ASEC-ARC) :
Jamie Pugh, N2VVL
Burlington County : Chris Canatella, KC2GNQ
Camden County : Tim Carvis, WB9ULP
Cumberland County : Mike Harla, N2HMO
Gloucester County : Bob Keogh, KD2NEC
Mercer County : John Pugh, WJ3P
Ocean County : Bob Murdock, WX2NJ
Salem County : Charlie Olinda, N2SRQ
Assistant Section Emergency Coordinator/American Red Cross Liaison (ASEC-ARC) :
Jamie Pugh, N2VVL
ARES Report Forms Video : https://youtu.be/vfUVvOYsTu0
To Learn More about ARES, Go to the ARRL/ARES Web Page (http://arrl.org/ares) , where you will find additional information.
Download the ARES Manual [PDF]
ARES Field Resources Manual [PDF]
ARES Standardized Training Plan Task Book [Fillable PDF]
ARES Standardized Training Plan Task Book [Word]
ARES Plan
ARES Group Registration
Emergency Communications Training
2022 National Preparedness Report
Southern New Jersey Section EOP 2022.PDF
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES) consists of licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment, with their local ARES leadership, for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes. Every licensed amateur, regardless of membership in ARRL or any other local or national organization is eligible to apply for membership in ARES. Training may be required or desired to participate fully in ARES. Please inquire at the local level for specific information. Because ARES is an amateur radio program, only licensed radio amateurs are eligible for membership. The possession of emergency-powered equipment is desirable but is not a requirement for membership.
If you are interested in learning more about the Gloucester County ARES Program or becoming an ARES member, please contact Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET)
Emergency Frequencies For The ARRL
Southern New Jersey Section
Amateur Radio Emergency Services - December 2023
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - kd2nec@qsl.net
Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - kd2nec@qsl.net
Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
|
In a previous issue of CrossTalk, we briefly discussed the formal role of Amateur Radio Emergency Communications, while working with Federal, State and Local Government Agencies. As we expand our presence to include our Local Government Agencies, we need to understand the Incident Command System (ICS) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS). These two FEMA Guidelines are an extremely important part of the ARES Training Plan; IS-100.c, IS-200.c, IS-700.c and IS-800.c. If you have any questions regarding these courses, please reach out to me. |
|
Information and Communications Technology Functional Guidance provides a framework to incorporate Information and Communications Technology (ICT) services within the Incident Command System (ICS) to meet the increasing demands and expectations for ICT capabilities.
This Guidance also introduces new ICT positions intended to support successful outcomes by providing communications resources and access to Information Technology (IT) capabilities for incident commanders/unified command and emergency managers. While this Guidance incorporates the ICT Branch within ICS, the ICT Branch can be incorporated into any command and coordination system, such as the Incident Support Model.
This Guidance establishes how the ICT function manages the infrastructure and systems that support and enable communications, information management processes, and applications required by the responders managing an incident. Additionally, this Guidance describes how the ICT function safeguards incident operations from Cybersecurity threats and explains how to manage the interrelationship of communications and IT infrastructure. This Guidance does not describe the operational response to Cybersecurity incidents. This Guidance describes the incident commander/unified command or emergency manager’s authority to organize the ICT Branch based on incident complexity.
Additionally, this Guidance explains the organization of and roles and responsibilities of the ICT function within an ICT Branch.
This Guidance also introduces new ICT positions intended to support successful outcomes by providing communications resources and access to Information Technology (IT) capabilities for incident commanders/unified command and emergency managers. While this Guidance incorporates the ICT Branch within ICS, the ICT Branch can be incorporated into any command and coordination system, such as the Incident Support Model.
This Guidance establishes how the ICT function manages the infrastructure and systems that support and enable communications, information management processes, and applications required by the responders managing an incident. Additionally, this Guidance describes how the ICT function safeguards incident operations from Cybersecurity threats and explains how to manage the interrelationship of communications and IT infrastructure. This Guidance does not describe the operational response to Cybersecurity incidents. This Guidance describes the incident commander/unified command or emergency manager’s authority to organize the ICT Branch based on incident complexity.
Additionally, this Guidance explains the organization of and roles and responsibilities of the ICT function within an ICT Branch.
|
Skywarn™ Recognition Day
If you have the time on Saturday, December 2, 2023 and you’re looking for a unique way to make contacts with some of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Centers, this is a fun way to accept the recognition that NOAA provides us every year. The instructions are all in this link : https://www.weather.gov/crh/skywarnrecognition |
|
If you are interested in learning more about our local weather, check into our GCARC Skywarn Net, every Sunday night at 1930 Hours on the 147.180 MHz Repeater and EchoLink W2MMD-R.
New Jersey 2023 Simulated Emergency Test
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - kd2nec@qsl.net
Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
Overview of Scenario
A severe tropical storm with embedded high winds, just below hurricane force, is approaching from the southeast at the same time as an astronomically high tide is forecasted along the Atlantic Coast. Preliminary weather prediction indicates the tropical storm will affect the entire New Jersey coast and possibly strengthen to hurricane force before landfall. Forecasters are anticipating flash flooding throughout New Jersey from rain falls up to 3-5 inches per hour in isolated locations, high straight-line winds in the range of 65 to 80 mph, and possible tornadoes/waterspouts. Extensive barrier islands, coastal, back-bays, and rivers/streams flooding are anticipated, including inland areas of NJ, resulting in evacuations. It is possible coastal evacuation highways will be converted to one-way western travel for evacuations of coastal areas.
NJ 2023 Simulated Emergency Test Objectives
The objectives for 2023 Simulated Emergency Test are :
Assumed Conditions for Simulated Emergency Test :
ARES Emergency Communications Rolls:
1. Provide American Red Cross of NJ emergency communications support for shelter locations :
2. Provide American Red Cross of NJ emergency communications support for logistical and administration of shelter services at :
3. Maintain liaison monitoring of NJ Office of Emergency Management SNJ SEC
4. Situational Weather awareness of conditions through NWS SKYWARN Spotters Reporting.
Simulated Emergency Shelter in Gloucester County
On the morning of Saturday, October 14, 2023, four members of GC-ARES defied the gloomy weather and participated in the annual Simulated Emergency Test (SET). The operators were Bruce Canino KD2LBU, Courtney Smith KD2SPJ, David Danichkin KD2UXC, and Karl Frank W2KBF. This was a joint exercise with ARES and the New Jersey American Red Cross (NJ-ARC), which recognizes the value of Amateur Radio in providing emergency communications to ARC shelters when cell phone and internet service is not available. Our goal was to establish radio communications from a Simulated Emergency Shelter in Gloucester County, then receive and send messages on behalf of the ARC. To add an element of realism, a spot adjacent to the Gymnasium of Rowan College of South Jersey in Sewell was selected for the simulated shelter. In the past, this building has been used as an actual ARC shelter.
Two stations were established : an FM phone station for communication with the ARC District Headquarters in Pennsauken via the W2MMD 2-meter repeater and a Winlink station on 223.580 MHz for data transmission. The radios shared a single Comet Triband antenna with triplexer which allowed simultaneous operation of phone and Winlink without mutual interference. Over the course of 3½ hours we fielded requests from Pennsauken for shelter information and used Winlink to respond with formal messages. The Winlink responses incorporated data that was previously provided to us in digital form, suitable for importing directly into standard forms used by the ARC. This simulated operations at a shelter where ARC personnel would hand data to radio operators for transmission and was far more efficient than attempting to send data via phone.
We rotated operating positions periodically, so everyone had a chance to operate both phone and Winlink. Although we experienced a few minor problems, the exercise was successful and gave us the opportunity to practice communication protocols required by the ARC.
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - kd2nec@qsl.net
Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
Overview of Scenario
A severe tropical storm with embedded high winds, just below hurricane force, is approaching from the southeast at the same time as an astronomically high tide is forecasted along the Atlantic Coast. Preliminary weather prediction indicates the tropical storm will affect the entire New Jersey coast and possibly strengthen to hurricane force before landfall. Forecasters are anticipating flash flooding throughout New Jersey from rain falls up to 3-5 inches per hour in isolated locations, high straight-line winds in the range of 65 to 80 mph, and possible tornadoes/waterspouts. Extensive barrier islands, coastal, back-bays, and rivers/streams flooding are anticipated, including inland areas of NJ, resulting in evacuations. It is possible coastal evacuation highways will be converted to one-way western travel for evacuations of coastal areas.
NJ 2023 Simulated Emergency Test Objectives
The objectives for 2023 Simulated Emergency Test are :
- To set up emergency radio communications, process tactical and formal messages, for multiple American Red Cross shelters passing formal/written messaged digitally, plus voice nets for instructions and announcements.
- To maintain ICS-214 Activity Logs for all activities, and ICS-309 Message Logs for all messages handled (tactical & formal), significant events, and operations.
- To respond to “Inject Incidents” throughout the simulated exercise related to changing conditions.
- To communicate damage assessment data to simulated served agencies, such as National Weather Service and County EOC, if necessary.
Assumed Conditions for Simulated Emergency Test :
- No commercial communications including internet, landline, and cellular telephones.
- Tropical Storm/Hurricane levels winds, flooding, and flash flooding forecasted :
- Rain falls of up to 3-5 inches per hour in some areas including inland, Flash Flood Warnings in place.
- Winds in the range of 65 to 85 mph gusts with possible tornadoes/waterspouts.
ARES Emergency Communications Rolls:
1. Provide American Red Cross of NJ emergency communications support for shelter locations :
- Atlantic County - Egg Harbor Twp Community Center, Egg Harbor Twp, NJ - Atlantic ARES
- Burlington County - Fellowship Alliance Chapel, Medford, NJ - Burlington ARES
- Cape May County - Martin L King Center, Whitesboro, NJ - Cape May ARES
- Cumberland County - Vocational Technical School, Vineland, NJ - Cumberland ARES
- Gloucester County - Rowan College of South Jersey, Sewell, NJ - Gloucester ARES
- Mercer County - The College of New Jersey, Ewing, NJ - Mercer ARES
- Monmouth County - Neptune High School, Neptune City, NJ - Monmouth ARES
- Ocean County - Central Regional High School, Bayville, NJ - Ocean ARES
2. Provide American Red Cross of NJ emergency communications support for logistical and administration of shelter services at :
- Princeton Office - Mercer County Overall NCS Operation - Mercer ARES
- Pennsauken Office - Camden County District Shelter Operations - Camden ARES
- Tinton Fall Office - Monmouth County District Shelter Operations - Monmouth ARES
3. Maintain liaison monitoring of NJ Office of Emergency Management SNJ SEC
4. Situational Weather awareness of conditions through NWS SKYWARN Spotters Reporting.
Simulated Emergency Shelter in Gloucester County
On the morning of Saturday, October 14, 2023, four members of GC-ARES defied the gloomy weather and participated in the annual Simulated Emergency Test (SET). The operators were Bruce Canino KD2LBU, Courtney Smith KD2SPJ, David Danichkin KD2UXC, and Karl Frank W2KBF. This was a joint exercise with ARES and the New Jersey American Red Cross (NJ-ARC), which recognizes the value of Amateur Radio in providing emergency communications to ARC shelters when cell phone and internet service is not available. Our goal was to establish radio communications from a Simulated Emergency Shelter in Gloucester County, then receive and send messages on behalf of the ARC. To add an element of realism, a spot adjacent to the Gymnasium of Rowan College of South Jersey in Sewell was selected for the simulated shelter. In the past, this building has been used as an actual ARC shelter.
Two stations were established : an FM phone station for communication with the ARC District Headquarters in Pennsauken via the W2MMD 2-meter repeater and a Winlink station on 223.580 MHz for data transmission. The radios shared a single Comet Triband antenna with triplexer which allowed simultaneous operation of phone and Winlink without mutual interference. Over the course of 3½ hours we fielded requests from Pennsauken for shelter information and used Winlink to respond with formal messages. The Winlink responses incorporated data that was previously provided to us in digital form, suitable for importing directly into standard forms used by the ARC. This simulated operations at a shelter where ARC personnel would hand data to radio operators for transmission and was far more efficient than attempting to send data via phone.
We rotated operating positions periodically, so everyone had a chance to operate both phone and Winlink. Although we experienced a few minor problems, the exercise was successful and gave us the opportunity to practice communication protocols required by the ARC.
AMERICAN RED CROSS (ARC) - SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY DISTRICT OFFICE
As stated in the “ARES Emergency Communications Rolls”, we followed the NJ Region American Red Cross organization of three Districts, Northern NJ, Central NJ, and Southern NJ. Each District has seven NJ Counties.
Gloucester County ARES and Camden County ARES agreed to have joint responsibility for staffing the Simulated South Jersey District Office. The SNJ ARC District is comprised of Cape May, Salem, Cumberland, Camden, Gloucester, Atlantic, Burlington Counties.
We had four radio operators working together in the ARC District office, located on Rt. 70 in Pennsauken. Those operators are Doug Dersch KD2VQA, Greg Ciraula W5DO, Pete Greene N2LVI, and Bob Keogh KD2NEC. We also had a fifth operator assigned to the position of liaison between the Princeton NJ HQ and the SNJ District.
Because this was our first Statewide, Joint ARC/ARES SET, we had a few technical and procedural challenges that we had to overcome. However, all our goals were met, and we had fun. The lessons we learned will be discussed at our follow-up conference with our Section Leadership.
ARC Pennsauken District Office : Greg Ciraula W5DO, Doug Dersch KD2VQA, Bob KD2NEC
ARES / New Jersey American Red Cross Simulated Emergency Test (SET)
Saturday, October 14, 2023
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
The picture below was our setup at the Rowan College of South Jersey in Sewell (Winlink tactical call GLOU-SHLT) during the SET on Saturday, October 14, 2023. We had four ARES operators (all GCARC members), a 2 meter radio for voice and a 220 MHz radio for Winlink.
I used a triplexer to put both radios on the Comet CX-333 antenna. By using two different bands, we could operate Voice and Winlink at the same time.
The American Red Cross has used the gymnasium in this building before as a shelter, so it was a realistic location. Even though it rained, we stayed outside in order to not interfere with the activities inside.
Saturday, October 14, 2023
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
The picture below was our setup at the Rowan College of South Jersey in Sewell (Winlink tactical call GLOU-SHLT) during the SET on Saturday, October 14, 2023. We had four ARES operators (all GCARC members), a 2 meter radio for voice and a 220 MHz radio for Winlink.
I used a triplexer to put both radios on the Comet CX-333 antenna. By using two different bands, we could operate Voice and Winlink at the same time.
The American Red Cross has used the gymnasium in this building before as a shelter, so it was a realistic location. Even though it rained, we stayed outside in order to not interfere with the activities inside.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services - October 2023
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - kd2nec@qsl.net
Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - kd2nec@qsl.net
Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
|
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Upcoming Events and Webinars FEMA issues a weekly bulletin via email. with upcoming events and webinars that are of interest to individuals as well as organizations. The bulletins cover topics related to Emergency Preparedness and many of them are very relevant to Amateur Radio Emergency Services. To subscribe, go to this link : https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSFEMA/signup/13827 |
|
Last week’s Webinar Presentation was from a company called “Information Technology Disaster Resources Center”. They have local resources that we might be interested in, such as mobile satellite communications equipment, which is available at no cost to their clients and partners.
Here is the link to their website : https://www.itdrc.org
All FEMA webinars are recorded and eventually put onto the FEMA website. Here is an example : https://www.fema.gov/node/amateur-ham-radio-emergency-managers
Here is the link to their website : https://www.itdrc.org
All FEMA webinars are recorded and eventually put onto the FEMA website. Here is an example : https://www.fema.gov/node/amateur-ham-radio-emergency-managers
|
The ARRL is another vast resource of information regarding the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES). In case you haven’t subscribed to the ARES Weekly Newsletter, here is the link : http://www.arrl.org/ares-el?issue=2023-09-20 |
|
- ARES® Briefs, Links
- Hurricane Idalia Response
- Winlink ShakeOut Exercise Next Month
- Open Letter from the National Hurricane Center's WX4NHC Operators
- September Is Emergency Preparedness Month - Perspective from a Pennsylvania County
- Mississippi Conducts Its SET on Hurricane Scenario
- Amateur Radio Helps Air Show Fly High
- Northern Florida SEC W4CPD for a Final: Hurricane Idalia Response
- ARES® Resources
- ARRL Resources
|
AMERICAN RED CROSS NJ REGION AMATEUR RADIO EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS In the September Crosstalk we talked about the initial Emergency Communications Plan and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the American Red Cross NJ Region and the NJ ARRL/ARES. |
|
We are now finalizing the plans for our Joint, Statewide, Simulated Emergency Test (SET) to be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023 between 0830 Hours and 1200 Hours.
The purpose of the SET is to determine what we are doing well and areas that we need to strengthen.
Gloucester County ARES has selected Rowan College in Sewell for our Simulated Shelter. We made sure that the Director of Campus Security understands ARES will be setting up Radios and Antennas on their grounds, to provide Emergency Communications with the NJ Red Cross. They were very supportive to have us on campus, to test our Disaster Relief Operations, alongside the Red Cross.
We will have a Network Control Station (NCS) for voice traffic in the ARC NJ Region Headquarters in Princeton and Station Hubs in all three of the ARC District Offices, Fairfield, Titan Falls, and Pennsauken.
All reporting between the Shelters and the ARC Supporting Facilities will be accomplished using WinLink and its ARC Template Forms.
It’s not too late to join our team and use your Amateur Radio License to provide service to our community. If you would like to participate, please don’t hesitate to contact me by email.
The purpose of the SET is to determine what we are doing well and areas that we need to strengthen.
Gloucester County ARES has selected Rowan College in Sewell for our Simulated Shelter. We made sure that the Director of Campus Security understands ARES will be setting up Radios and Antennas on their grounds, to provide Emergency Communications with the NJ Red Cross. They were very supportive to have us on campus, to test our Disaster Relief Operations, alongside the Red Cross.
We will have a Network Control Station (NCS) for voice traffic in the ARC NJ Region Headquarters in Princeton and Station Hubs in all three of the ARC District Offices, Fairfield, Titan Falls, and Pennsauken.
All reporting between the Shelters and the ARC Supporting Facilities will be accomplished using WinLink and its ARC Template Forms.
It’s not too late to join our team and use your Amateur Radio License to provide service to our community. If you would like to participate, please don’t hesitate to contact me by email.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services - September 2023
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - kd2nec@qsl.net
Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
September is National Preparedness Month
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - kd2nec@qsl.net
Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
September is National Preparedness Month
|
SkyWarn is our Early Warning System The article below was written by Greg Ciraula W5DO Are you a weather enthusiast? Do you have an interest in weather or public service? Come join us at the Gloucester County SkyWarn Group. We meet on Sunday evenings at 1930 Hours on the GCARC repeater 147.180 (131.8) and EchoLink W2MMD-R. You don’t have to be a member of SkyWarn® or a trained spotter to check us out! A weather |
station is not required either. Just check into the net and let us know what you see outside if possible.
During SkyWarn® activation, the National Weather Service (NWS) uses information from Spotters along with Doppler radar, satellite, and other data to issue more timely and accurate weather warnings.
I am just getting more active in SkyWarn® myself. So, if you are new at this, we can step through it together. Spotter Training is available and I will verify with the NWS for any courses that can be completed online to obtain Spotter certification. Additional information about Skywarn Spotter Training Classes can be found on the Skywarn page on the w2mmd.org website.
More information on the SkyWarn® program can be found on the Sunday net, future articles in CrossTalk, and at https://www.weather.gov/skywarn. I’m looking forward to talking with you on the air.
During SkyWarn® activation, the National Weather Service (NWS) uses information from Spotters along with Doppler radar, satellite, and other data to issue more timely and accurate weather warnings.
I am just getting more active in SkyWarn® myself. So, if you are new at this, we can step through it together. Spotter Training is available and I will verify with the NWS for any courses that can be completed online to obtain Spotter certification. Additional information about Skywarn Spotter Training Classes can be found on the Skywarn page on the w2mmd.org website.
More information on the SkyWarn® program can be found on the Sunday net, future articles in CrossTalk, and at https://www.weather.gov/skywarn. I’m looking forward to talking with you on the air.
|
|
American Red Cross & American Radio Relay League Emergency Communications Program On August 25, 2023, the New Jersey Region of the American Red Cross (ARC) and the New Jersey |
American Radio Relay League (ARRL) signed a new Local Agreement between the Red Cross and the ARRL was signed in the Red Cross Princeton Office. The purpose of this agreement is to define how the ARRL will provide Emergency Communication to the ARC NJ Region, during a Disaster Relief Operation (DRO), that has disabled commercial communications.
The first joint exercise will be our 2023 Simulated Emergency Test (SET) on Saturday, October 14, 2023 (changed from the ARRL SET on October 7, 2023). As soon as we receive the emergency scenario for this test, we will have approximately one month to develop our plan and staff the positions needed to implement a successful implementation.
As a result of the American Red Cross New Jersey Region agreement with ARRL NNJ & SNJ Sections signed on Friday, August 25, 2023, the 2023 Simulated Emergency Test (SET) was moved to October 15th. The proposed SET is being modified for a State-wide ARES application of proposed operating procedures for handling American Red Cross (ARC) messages. The proposed operating plan leverages skills and knowledge utilized previously during SNJ SET operations, such as WINLINK and liaison stations.
If you plan to participate in this exercise, please send me an email and I will add your name to the list.
We will be using WinLink Data Modes to send and receive reports between the Simulated ARC Shelters and the NJ ARC Regional and Chapter facilities. We might also be providing radio communications to and from the logistics facility and damage assessment in the areas that were impacted by the incident.
More information will be provided as the Emergency Plan is being developed.
The first joint exercise will be our 2023 Simulated Emergency Test (SET) on Saturday, October 14, 2023 (changed from the ARRL SET on October 7, 2023). As soon as we receive the emergency scenario for this test, we will have approximately one month to develop our plan and staff the positions needed to implement a successful implementation.
As a result of the American Red Cross New Jersey Region agreement with ARRL NNJ & SNJ Sections signed on Friday, August 25, 2023, the 2023 Simulated Emergency Test (SET) was moved to October 15th. The proposed SET is being modified for a State-wide ARES application of proposed operating procedures for handling American Red Cross (ARC) messages. The proposed operating plan leverages skills and knowledge utilized previously during SNJ SET operations, such as WINLINK and liaison stations.
If you plan to participate in this exercise, please send me an email and I will add your name to the list.
We will be using WinLink Data Modes to send and receive reports between the Simulated ARC Shelters and the NJ ARC Regional and Chapter facilities. We might also be providing radio communications to and from the logistics facility and damage assessment in the areas that were impacted by the incident.
More information will be provided as the Emergency Plan is being developed.
|
You must have seen the emails for this Public Service event scheduled for Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1, 2023. This is a very important charitable event that we support each year and we need more Amateur Radio Operators to staff all the locations along the 70 mile route from Cherry Hill to Ocean City. Currently, we only have half the number of operators need.
Another Bike MS Ride, the Bike MS : Bike To The Bay in Delaware, is scheduled for Saturday, October 7, 2023. They are also looking for volunteers for this ride. Please register now at this link https://www.n3mss.org |
Amateur Radio Emergency Services - August 2023
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - kd2nec@qsl.net
Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Amateur Radio Included in the FEMA Guide for National Emergency Management
FEMA has released a final version (March 2023) of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Functional Guidance. The guidance, which provides a framework for communications resources within incident management, officially includes support from amateur radio operations. The expanded Communications Unit (COMU) structure now includes the Auxiliary Communications (AUXC) role, which covers personnel from services that provide communications support to emergency management, public safety, and other government agencies; this includes amateur radio.
NIMS guides government, non-government organizations, and the private sector (i.e. American Red Cross) to work together to prepare for, response to, and recover from disasters and other emergencies. “This is a major step toward the recognition of the need and usefulness of amateur radio and other communications services in our national preparedness said ARRL director of Emergency Management Josh Johnston, KE5MHV. It also gives official guidance to pave the way for future training and education of volunteers in ARRL’s ARES Program, Johnston added.
The NIMS ICT guide is available at : https://bit.ly/40zSfDN
(Copied from the June 2023 QST Magazine, page 66)
AMERICAN RED CROSS NJ REGION - AMATEUR RADIO EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
PROJECT PLAN
This plan, although very thorough, will be revised as we receive more information regarding the current requirements and when we move into the second phase of planning a more permanent infrastructure, using some type of Mesh Network.
Because of the complexity of Red Cross Disaster Recovery Operations (DROs), there is a need to include how these incidents can scale up from a single location in one County, to many locations in NJ, i.e. Super Storm Sandy. Besides the structure of this plan, there is mention of training requirements, drills, and exercises.
The current GCARC team of 14 Radio Amateurs, have been attending a series of meetings to discuss the plan and how it will be implemented when we are activated by the Red Cross due to the disruption of normal communications systems.
Our partnership with the ARC included participation with the Red Cross in Field Day (bonus points) and the ARRL Annual Simulated Emergency Test on October 7, 2023.
If you have any questions, or wish to see the Project Plan, please don’t hesitate to contact me by email.
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - kd2nec@qsl.net
Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Amateur Radio Included in the FEMA Guide for National Emergency Management
FEMA has released a final version (March 2023) of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Functional Guidance. The guidance, which provides a framework for communications resources within incident management, officially includes support from amateur radio operations. The expanded Communications Unit (COMU) structure now includes the Auxiliary Communications (AUXC) role, which covers personnel from services that provide communications support to emergency management, public safety, and other government agencies; this includes amateur radio.
NIMS guides government, non-government organizations, and the private sector (i.e. American Red Cross) to work together to prepare for, response to, and recover from disasters and other emergencies. “This is a major step toward the recognition of the need and usefulness of amateur radio and other communications services in our national preparedness said ARRL director of Emergency Management Josh Johnston, KE5MHV. It also gives official guidance to pave the way for future training and education of volunteers in ARRL’s ARES Program, Johnston added.
The NIMS ICT guide is available at : https://bit.ly/40zSfDN
(Copied from the June 2023 QST Magazine, page 66)
AMERICAN RED CROSS NJ REGION - AMATEUR RADIO EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
PROJECT PLAN
This plan, although very thorough, will be revised as we receive more information regarding the current requirements and when we move into the second phase of planning a more permanent infrastructure, using some type of Mesh Network.
Because of the complexity of Red Cross Disaster Recovery Operations (DROs), there is a need to include how these incidents can scale up from a single location in one County, to many locations in NJ, i.e. Super Storm Sandy. Besides the structure of this plan, there is mention of training requirements, drills, and exercises.
The current GCARC team of 14 Radio Amateurs, have been attending a series of meetings to discuss the plan and how it will be implemented when we are activated by the Red Cross due to the disruption of normal communications systems.
Our partnership with the ARC included participation with the Red Cross in Field Day (bonus points) and the ARRL Annual Simulated Emergency Test on October 7, 2023.
If you have any questions, or wish to see the Project Plan, please don’t hesitate to contact me by email.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services - June 2023
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
Welcome to Hurricane Season 2023
Believe it or not, June 1st is the official start date of Hurricane Season.
If you haven’t already developed a Personal Hurricane Plan to share with your family and friends, now is the time. Below are some helpful Web Sites that are very useful to prepare a plan and what to do before, during and after a hurricane strikes your area :
Our preparation plans need to include when, where and how we should either evacuate the area or shelter in place. There is a point in time when it’s too late to evacuate and that is the worse situation you can find yourself in.
After the storm is over and if we were lucky enough to NOT be impacted in any way, as trained Amateur Radio Operators we can aid those who now need us.
Enter the American Red Cross (ARC) and their Disaster Recovery Operation (DRO) Team. We have fourteen Gloucester County Amateur Radio Operators who have recently registered with the ARC to provide Emergency Communications, “when all else fails”.
Our local team will begin a series of conferences, on-line independent training, and joint exercises with the Red Cross, to prepare ourselves for the real deal. Our 2023 Strategic Emergency Test will include the Red Cross and will be simulating a Major DRO, taking place on October 1, 2023.
Gloucester County, Monmouth County, and Mercer County are leading the way in New Jersey, with a total number of 51 registered EMCOMM Radio Operators. However, when (not if) we have another “Super Storm Sandy”, that won’t be anywhere near the number of Radio Operators that we’ll need to provide communications between all the Shelters, Logistics Suppliers, Disaster Centers, Chapter Centers, Regional HQ, the NJ State Police, and the NJ Emergency Operations Centers.
The good news is, an operation of that size, the National DRO team will be deployed from Texas and will be in NJ within two days. They will be bringing their Satellite Communications Equipment with them, to restore communications to the areas that were impacted.
That said, we have been invited to present our capabilities of a more permanent Mesh Network, that would be implemented in stages, over time.
Other Events
Bike MS : City to the Shore Ride will take place on Saturday, September 30 & Sunday, October 1, 2023. We will have Amateur Radio Operators stationed along the bike route, starting at the Cherry Hill Train Station, and ending at the Ocean City High School. If you want to use your Radio License for this event, you must register on-line for either Saturday and/or Sunday. Specifics will be provided as we get closer to the event.
If you have any questions about anything in this article or wish to register with ARES, please reach out to Bob Keogh : KD2NEC@QSL.NET
Editor’s Note : Go to the “Bike MS” page on our website for links and other information about the Bike MS : City To Shore Ride.
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
Welcome to Hurricane Season 2023
Believe it or not, June 1st is the official start date of Hurricane Season.
If you haven’t already developed a Personal Hurricane Plan to share with your family and friends, now is the time. Below are some helpful Web Sites that are very useful to prepare a plan and what to do before, during and after a hurricane strikes your area :
- Hurricanes - Ready.gov - https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
- VoIP Hurricane Net - https://voipwx.net
- National Hurricane Center - https://www.nhc.noaa.gov
- SKYWARN Amateur Radio Network - https://www.weather.gov/oun/amateurradio
- Amateur Radio - Automatic Weather Stations (APRS) - https://w4ehw.fiu.edu/w4ehw-aprs.html
- The Hurricane Watch Net - https://www.hwn.org
- Hurricane: American Red Cross : On the Apple App Store and the Google Store
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) : On the Apple App Store and the Google Store
Our preparation plans need to include when, where and how we should either evacuate the area or shelter in place. There is a point in time when it’s too late to evacuate and that is the worse situation you can find yourself in.
After the storm is over and if we were lucky enough to NOT be impacted in any way, as trained Amateur Radio Operators we can aid those who now need us.
Enter the American Red Cross (ARC) and their Disaster Recovery Operation (DRO) Team. We have fourteen Gloucester County Amateur Radio Operators who have recently registered with the ARC to provide Emergency Communications, “when all else fails”.
Our local team will begin a series of conferences, on-line independent training, and joint exercises with the Red Cross, to prepare ourselves for the real deal. Our 2023 Strategic Emergency Test will include the Red Cross and will be simulating a Major DRO, taking place on October 1, 2023.
Gloucester County, Monmouth County, and Mercer County are leading the way in New Jersey, with a total number of 51 registered EMCOMM Radio Operators. However, when (not if) we have another “Super Storm Sandy”, that won’t be anywhere near the number of Radio Operators that we’ll need to provide communications between all the Shelters, Logistics Suppliers, Disaster Centers, Chapter Centers, Regional HQ, the NJ State Police, and the NJ Emergency Operations Centers.
The good news is, an operation of that size, the National DRO team will be deployed from Texas and will be in NJ within two days. They will be bringing their Satellite Communications Equipment with them, to restore communications to the areas that were impacted.
That said, we have been invited to present our capabilities of a more permanent Mesh Network, that would be implemented in stages, over time.
Other Events
Bike MS : City to the Shore Ride will take place on Saturday, September 30 & Sunday, October 1, 2023. We will have Amateur Radio Operators stationed along the bike route, starting at the Cherry Hill Train Station, and ending at the Ocean City High School. If you want to use your Radio License for this event, you must register on-line for either Saturday and/or Sunday. Specifics will be provided as we get closer to the event.
If you have any questions about anything in this article or wish to register with ARES, please reach out to Bob Keogh : KD2NEC@QSL.NET
Editor’s Note : Go to the “Bike MS” page on our website for links and other information about the Bike MS : City To Shore Ride.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services - May 2023
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
ARES® News
(This article in the ARES Newsletter caught my eye and it sounds like something we should plan for a Tech Saturday)
ARRL Ohio Section ARES NVIS Antenna Day
The ARRL Ohio Section ARES NVIS Antenna Day is a non-contest operating activity open to all radio amateurs. This year's event is scheduled for April 22. In the case of an emergency, amateur radio operators may need to communicate over short distances to stations within the state of Ohio and neighboring states. The value of short-distance HF communications was proven in the immediate wake of Hurricane Michael in 2018. Michael disrupted all communications along the Gulf Coast. Many radio amateurs resorted to 80-meter local contacts, including the North Florida Traffic Net, for emergency communications. Because repeaters were down, HF proved to be the workhorse for passing messages.
Temporary NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence Skywave) antennas are the technology to do this with, but which are the best designs? In addition, how does your antenna work? Experimenting with antennas is still one of the most fun aspects of the hobby. Tie the two purposes together, add a group of friends, plenty of coffee, a BBQ grill, and you have a formula for a really good time!
The Ohio State EOC Amateur Radio station in Columbus, "The Sarge" - W8SGT, will be in operation to compare signals and provide a consistent signal strength report. Remember the overall goal is still to figure out your best NVIS antenna, and contact as many other NVIS stations as possible to plot your coverage area. Take pictures! Submit your antenna evaluations : which designs you used, how they performed, etc., and submit a log report with overall number of contacts, your location and operators. - Blair ARES Alert!, April 2023 issue, newsletter of the Blair County, Pennsylvania, ARES program [Emergency Coordinator Kevin Lear, W3XOX; Editor Drew McGhee, KA3EJV]
Field Day is Around the Corner : Emergency Communications Categories
Karl Frank W2KBF (ARES Emergency Coordinator Assistant and Trusted Advisor) is working with our friends in the Red Cross, regarding “Class F” communications during Field Day this year. Also, since we have a couple of new Red Cross members in the GCARC now, it only takes one of them to visit our Club on that weekend and we get another 100 points.
ARRL Field Day is the grandaddy of all emergency communications exercises. One of the most popular activities on the ARES communicator's agenda will be held this year on June 24-25. Below are two classes of Field Day operation of special interest to the emergency communications operator or group :
(Class E) Home stations - Emergency power : Same as Class D but using emergency power for transmitters and receivers. Class E may work at all Field Day stations.
(Class F) Emergency Operations Centers (EOC) : An amateur radio station at an established EOC activated by a club or non-club group. Class F operation must take place at an established EOC site. Stations may utilize equipment and antennas temporarily or permanently installed at the EOC for the event. Entries will be reported according to the number of transmitters in simultaneous operation. Class F stations are eligible for a free VHF station. At Class 2F they are also eligible for a GOTA station. For Field Day purposes, an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is defined as a facility established by a) a Federal, State, County, City or other Civil Government, agency or administrative entity; or b) a Chapter of a national or international served agency (such as American Red Cross or Salvation Army) with which your local group has an established operating arrangement. A private company EOC does not qualify for Class F status unless approved by the ARRL Field Day Manager. Planning of a Class F operation must take place in conjunction and cooperation with the staff of the EOC being activated. A Class F station may claim the emergency power bonus if emergency power is available at the EOC site. The emergency power source must be tested during the Field Day period, but you are not required to run the Class F operation under emergency power.
Reminder : Joint Military Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst
On Saturday May 20 and Sunday May 21, from 1030 to 1730, the ARRL/ARES South Jersey Section Leadership is planning a Demonstration of Amateur Radio Equipment, Capabilities and Emergency Communications. The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of Amateur Radio, as well as our ARES Program.
The Red Cross will also be there to raise awareness of their Military Support Services. If you ever watched M.A.S.H on TV, you probably noticed all the Red Cross emblems. Military Support Services is one of five branches of the Red Cross and provides care to both Active Duty and Veterans that are suffering with physical, emotional and financial problems.
ARES and the American Red Cross (ARC) NJ Region :
We are finally making progress on our preliminary Communications Plan for the NJ Red Cross. We’re about to enter the initial test phase, the Radio Links between the Red Cross Headquarters in Princeton and the three Chapter Offices in North Jersey, Central Jersey and South Jersey. This test will be conducted on Monday, April 24 beginning at 2000 Local Time. The call from Princeton to Pennsauken will be via the Waterford Works Repeater on 147.345 (PL 127.3) and it should take place at approximately 2015 local time.
ARES Net
Steve Farney W2SEF (ARES Emergency Coordinator Assistant) who manages our Gloucester County ARES Net every Sunday Night at 2000 local time. He consistently averages approximately 15 radio amateurs every week, checking into this net. He is also one of the Net Control Stations on the 2M Rag Chew Nets, twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is where Steve told me that he plans on casting his net for new ARES recruits.
So, be prepared, Steve has a tough quota, and he will be using some aggressive “Headhunter” techniques. Maybe he’ll split his commissions with those who sign up HIHI.
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
ARES® News
(This article in the ARES Newsletter caught my eye and it sounds like something we should plan for a Tech Saturday)
ARRL Ohio Section ARES NVIS Antenna Day
The ARRL Ohio Section ARES NVIS Antenna Day is a non-contest operating activity open to all radio amateurs. This year's event is scheduled for April 22. In the case of an emergency, amateur radio operators may need to communicate over short distances to stations within the state of Ohio and neighboring states. The value of short-distance HF communications was proven in the immediate wake of Hurricane Michael in 2018. Michael disrupted all communications along the Gulf Coast. Many radio amateurs resorted to 80-meter local contacts, including the North Florida Traffic Net, for emergency communications. Because repeaters were down, HF proved to be the workhorse for passing messages.
Temporary NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence Skywave) antennas are the technology to do this with, but which are the best designs? In addition, how does your antenna work? Experimenting with antennas is still one of the most fun aspects of the hobby. Tie the two purposes together, add a group of friends, plenty of coffee, a BBQ grill, and you have a formula for a really good time!
The Ohio State EOC Amateur Radio station in Columbus, "The Sarge" - W8SGT, will be in operation to compare signals and provide a consistent signal strength report. Remember the overall goal is still to figure out your best NVIS antenna, and contact as many other NVIS stations as possible to plot your coverage area. Take pictures! Submit your antenna evaluations : which designs you used, how they performed, etc., and submit a log report with overall number of contacts, your location and operators. - Blair ARES Alert!, April 2023 issue, newsletter of the Blair County, Pennsylvania, ARES program [Emergency Coordinator Kevin Lear, W3XOX; Editor Drew McGhee, KA3EJV]
Field Day is Around the Corner : Emergency Communications Categories
Karl Frank W2KBF (ARES Emergency Coordinator Assistant and Trusted Advisor) is working with our friends in the Red Cross, regarding “Class F” communications during Field Day this year. Also, since we have a couple of new Red Cross members in the GCARC now, it only takes one of them to visit our Club on that weekend and we get another 100 points.
ARRL Field Day is the grandaddy of all emergency communications exercises. One of the most popular activities on the ARES communicator's agenda will be held this year on June 24-25. Below are two classes of Field Day operation of special interest to the emergency communications operator or group :
(Class E) Home stations - Emergency power : Same as Class D but using emergency power for transmitters and receivers. Class E may work at all Field Day stations.
(Class F) Emergency Operations Centers (EOC) : An amateur radio station at an established EOC activated by a club or non-club group. Class F operation must take place at an established EOC site. Stations may utilize equipment and antennas temporarily or permanently installed at the EOC for the event. Entries will be reported according to the number of transmitters in simultaneous operation. Class F stations are eligible for a free VHF station. At Class 2F they are also eligible for a GOTA station. For Field Day purposes, an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is defined as a facility established by a) a Federal, State, County, City or other Civil Government, agency or administrative entity; or b) a Chapter of a national or international served agency (such as American Red Cross or Salvation Army) with which your local group has an established operating arrangement. A private company EOC does not qualify for Class F status unless approved by the ARRL Field Day Manager. Planning of a Class F operation must take place in conjunction and cooperation with the staff of the EOC being activated. A Class F station may claim the emergency power bonus if emergency power is available at the EOC site. The emergency power source must be tested during the Field Day period, but you are not required to run the Class F operation under emergency power.
Reminder : Joint Military Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst
On Saturday May 20 and Sunday May 21, from 1030 to 1730, the ARRL/ARES South Jersey Section Leadership is planning a Demonstration of Amateur Radio Equipment, Capabilities and Emergency Communications. The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of Amateur Radio, as well as our ARES Program.
The Red Cross will also be there to raise awareness of their Military Support Services. If you ever watched M.A.S.H on TV, you probably noticed all the Red Cross emblems. Military Support Services is one of five branches of the Red Cross and provides care to both Active Duty and Veterans that are suffering with physical, emotional and financial problems.
ARES and the American Red Cross (ARC) NJ Region :
We are finally making progress on our preliminary Communications Plan for the NJ Red Cross. We’re about to enter the initial test phase, the Radio Links between the Red Cross Headquarters in Princeton and the three Chapter Offices in North Jersey, Central Jersey and South Jersey. This test will be conducted on Monday, April 24 beginning at 2000 Local Time. The call from Princeton to Pennsauken will be via the Waterford Works Repeater on 147.345 (PL 127.3) and it should take place at approximately 2015 local time.
ARES Net
Steve Farney W2SEF (ARES Emergency Coordinator Assistant) who manages our Gloucester County ARES Net every Sunday Night at 2000 local time. He consistently averages approximately 15 radio amateurs every week, checking into this net. He is also one of the Net Control Stations on the 2M Rag Chew Nets, twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is where Steve told me that he plans on casting his net for new ARES recruits.
So, be prepared, Steve has a tough quota, and he will be using some aggressive “Headhunter” techniques. Maybe he’ll split his commissions with those who sign up HIHI.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services - April 2023
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES) consists of licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment, with their local ARES leadership, for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes. Every licensed amateur, regardless of membership in ARRL or any other local or national organization is eligible to apply for membership in ARES. Training may be required or desired to participate fully in ARES. Please inquire at the local level for specific information. Because ARES is an amateur radio program, only licensed radio amateurs are eligible for membership. The possession of emergency-powered equipment is desirable but is not a requirement for membership.
If you are interested in learning more about the Gloucester County ARES Program or becoming an ARES member, please contact Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET)
ARES® News
Amateur Radio in Turkey and Northern Syria after the Earthquake
After the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Northern Syria on February 21, 2023, BBC's Digital Planet spoke to Aziz Sasa, TA1E, who is the President of the Turkish Amateur Radio Association. Aziz explained the vital role of amateur radio as a key communication method in the region. He also talked about how radio amateurs were aiding relief efforts with the use of repeaters on VHF and UHF frequencies. You can hear the interview on BBC Sounds - it starts at 2 minutes and 40 seconds into the broadcast. - Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB)
For more details, see the April 2023 QST article on page 66.
Joint Military Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst
ARRL/ARES Demonstration at the Joint Military Base MDL Air Show
ARES and the American Red Cross (ARC) NJ Region :
ARES Nets
Resources - News - Updates
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES) consists of licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment, with their local ARES leadership, for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes. Every licensed amateur, regardless of membership in ARRL or any other local or national organization is eligible to apply for membership in ARES. Training may be required or desired to participate fully in ARES. Please inquire at the local level for specific information. Because ARES is an amateur radio program, only licensed radio amateurs are eligible for membership. The possession of emergency-powered equipment is desirable but is not a requirement for membership.
If you are interested in learning more about the Gloucester County ARES Program or becoming an ARES member, please contact Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET)
ARES® News
Amateur Radio in Turkey and Northern Syria after the Earthquake
After the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Northern Syria on February 21, 2023, BBC's Digital Planet spoke to Aziz Sasa, TA1E, who is the President of the Turkish Amateur Radio Association. Aziz explained the vital role of amateur radio as a key communication method in the region. He also talked about how radio amateurs were aiding relief efforts with the use of repeaters on VHF and UHF frequencies. You can hear the interview on BBC Sounds - it starts at 2 minutes and 40 seconds into the broadcast. - Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB)
For more details, see the April 2023 QST article on page 66.
Joint Military Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst
ARRL/ARES Demonstration at the Joint Military Base MDL Air Show
- On Saturday May 20 and Sunday May 21, from 1030 to 1730, the ARRL/ARES South Jersey Section Leadership is planning a Demonstration of Amateur Radio Equipment, Capabilities and Emergency Communications. The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of Amateur Radio, as well as our ARES Program. The plan is still being developed and updates will be provided when we have so further details.
- The ARES Section Coordinator (Tom Devine) is also starting to work on the annual Strategic Emergency Test (SET) to take place in October.
ARES and the American Red Cross (ARC) NJ Region :
- The ARC Disaster Relief Services Group is wrapping up the reassessment of the number and locations of Shelters in each of the 21 counties of NJ. Results of this reassessment should be completed by the end of March.
- In the meantime, we are working with the ARC Disaster Technology team, to determine the requirements regarding the numbers of Amateur Radio Operators needed to provide both Voice and Data Emergency Communications. At this moment, we are responsible for Radio Communications between the Shelters, Disaster Headquarters, and the logistics facilities. Naturally, this will depend on the severity of the disaster, the number of impacted areas and the disruption of the regional commercial communications systems.
- Our goal is to have our Communications Plan completed and tested long before the hurricane season begins.
- March has been designated as American Red Cross month, by every US President since FDR. On March 5th, we celebrated onboard the Battleship NJ, across the river from where “BB62” was launched in 1942. This event provided me with a unique opportunity to spend time with the ARC NJ Regional CEO Rosie Taravella and the NJ Regional Disaster Services Director Ed Blanchard. Rosie’s husband is a Radio Amateur and Ed, who just recently relocated from New England, are both very supportive of ARES.
ARES Nets
- ARES Training NET : Steve Farney W2SEF (AEC) does a fabulous job managing our Gloucester County ARES Net every Sunday Night at 2000. You do not need to be a member of ARES or the GCARC, to check-into this net. We average approximately 15 radio amateurs each week. The purpose of this net is to provide training, passing traffic, and announcements.
- Southern Counties Emergency Repeater Net (SCERN) : Charlie Olinda N2SRO is the Net Control Station for SCERN. This net begins at 2030 every Sunday night. It uses the C4FM Digital Voice mode on these simplex frequencies : 440.24375 in Camden, 445.31875 in Salem County, or 445.31875 in Cumberland County. These repeaters are linked, so the net can be accessed from the repeater closest to your station.
- Part of the ARC Communications Plan is to have a monthly net to test our equipment and capabilities. It will probably be on the last Monday of every month, on the same frequency as the ARES Net. More about this later.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - March 2023
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
ARES® Who We Are
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES) consists of licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment, with their local ARES leadership, for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes. Training may be required or desired to participate fully in ARES. Please inquire at the local level for specific information. Because ARES is an amateur radio program, only licensed radio amateurs are eligible for membership. The possession of emergency-powered equipment is desirable but is not a requirement for membership. If you are interested in learning more about the Gloucester County ARES Program or joining the Local ARES Team, please contact Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET)
ARES® News
Turkey and Syria
On the evening of Monday, February 6, 2023, there was a 7.8 magnitude earthquake that mainly affected Turkey and Syria as well as other neighboring countries with almost 35,000 dead (at press time) and more than 16,000 injured, with likely many more. According to information received from the emergency coordinators of the IARU Region 1 countries and, especially from Greg Mossop, G0DUB, the emergency communications coordinator for this region, communications in Turkey have been mainly on VHF, but transmissions in Turkish have also been heard on 28.540 MHz, although they can also use 3.777 MHz and 7.092 MHz. For this reason, we ask our colleagues in IARU Region 2 (the Americas) to protect those frequencies and assess the evolving situation for opportunities to serve the relief effort. As for Syria, it has been reported that apparently there are not many radio amateurs there, so we do not know if there is any frequency in use in that country. Aziz Sasa, TA1E, Turkish emergency communications coordinator, suggested that any help from other countries should be coordinated through the Turkish embassy in each country. Humanitarian aid groups from several European countries are currently moving into the affected regions.
ARES® Local Updates
ARES® Demonstration at the Lakehurst Air Show
The ARES South Jersey Section Leadership is planning a Demonstration of our Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Equipment and Capabilities during the annual Power In The Pines Open House and Air Show at the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (https://www.jbmdl.jb.mil/Airshow-Information), on Saturday, May 20, 2023 and Sunday, May 21, 2023, from 1030 to 1730 Hours.
The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of Amateur Radio, as well as our ARES Program. The plan is still being developed and updates will be provided to the ARES team when we have some further details.
ARES® Annual Simulated Emergency Test
The ARES Section is also starting to work on the annual Simulated Emergency Test (SET) to take place in October. If anyone has any unique ideas for the SET this year, please share it with Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET)
ARES® Support for the American Red Cross (ARC) NJ Region
The ARC Disaster Relief Services Group is wrapping up the reassessment of the number and locations of Shelters in each of the 21 counties in NJ. They hope to be completed by the end of March.
In the meantime, we are working with the ARC Technology team, to determine the requirements, based on a worse case scenario. This would include the number of Amateur Radio Operators needed to provide both Voice and Data Emergency Communications, between the required Shelters, Disaster Head Quarters, and the Logistics facilities, when all commercial communications have been disrupted.
ARES® Training Net
The purpose of this Training Net is to practice participating in a “Directed Net” and how to use the standard FEMA Incident Command Messaging System. The Gloucester County ARES Net meets every Sunday Night at 2000 Hours on the 147.180 (pl 131.8) repeater or EchoLink W2MMD-R. You do not need to be a member of ARES or the GCARC, to check into this net. Everyone is welcome to join.
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
ARES® Who We Are
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES) consists of licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment, with their local ARES leadership, for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes. Training may be required or desired to participate fully in ARES. Please inquire at the local level for specific information. Because ARES is an amateur radio program, only licensed radio amateurs are eligible for membership. The possession of emergency-powered equipment is desirable but is not a requirement for membership. If you are interested in learning more about the Gloucester County ARES Program or joining the Local ARES Team, please contact Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET)
ARES® News
Turkey and Syria
On the evening of Monday, February 6, 2023, there was a 7.8 magnitude earthquake that mainly affected Turkey and Syria as well as other neighboring countries with almost 35,000 dead (at press time) and more than 16,000 injured, with likely many more. According to information received from the emergency coordinators of the IARU Region 1 countries and, especially from Greg Mossop, G0DUB, the emergency communications coordinator for this region, communications in Turkey have been mainly on VHF, but transmissions in Turkish have also been heard on 28.540 MHz, although they can also use 3.777 MHz and 7.092 MHz. For this reason, we ask our colleagues in IARU Region 2 (the Americas) to protect those frequencies and assess the evolving situation for opportunities to serve the relief effort. As for Syria, it has been reported that apparently there are not many radio amateurs there, so we do not know if there is any frequency in use in that country. Aziz Sasa, TA1E, Turkish emergency communications coordinator, suggested that any help from other countries should be coordinated through the Turkish embassy in each country. Humanitarian aid groups from several European countries are currently moving into the affected regions.
ARES® Local Updates
ARES® Demonstration at the Lakehurst Air Show
The ARES South Jersey Section Leadership is planning a Demonstration of our Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Equipment and Capabilities during the annual Power In The Pines Open House and Air Show at the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (https://www.jbmdl.jb.mil/Airshow-Information), on Saturday, May 20, 2023 and Sunday, May 21, 2023, from 1030 to 1730 Hours.
The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of Amateur Radio, as well as our ARES Program. The plan is still being developed and updates will be provided to the ARES team when we have some further details.
ARES® Annual Simulated Emergency Test
The ARES Section is also starting to work on the annual Simulated Emergency Test (SET) to take place in October. If anyone has any unique ideas for the SET this year, please share it with Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET)
ARES® Support for the American Red Cross (ARC) NJ Region
The ARC Disaster Relief Services Group is wrapping up the reassessment of the number and locations of Shelters in each of the 21 counties in NJ. They hope to be completed by the end of March.
In the meantime, we are working with the ARC Technology team, to determine the requirements, based on a worse case scenario. This would include the number of Amateur Radio Operators needed to provide both Voice and Data Emergency Communications, between the required Shelters, Disaster Head Quarters, and the Logistics facilities, when all commercial communications have been disrupted.
ARES® Training Net
The purpose of this Training Net is to practice participating in a “Directed Net” and how to use the standard FEMA Incident Command Messaging System. The Gloucester County ARES Net meets every Sunday Night at 2000 Hours on the 147.180 (pl 131.8) repeater or EchoLink W2MMD-R. You do not need to be a member of ARES or the GCARC, to check into this net. Everyone is welcome to join.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - February 2023
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
1. First and Foremost....Partnering with the American Red Cross
We are making progress with the Partnership between the Red Cross and the ARRL. Below is page 12 of 12 of the current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that roughly describes the roles that ARES will provide to the NJ Region of the Red Cross when their is a need for the Red Cross to activate ARES during a Disaster Relief Operation (DRO). Of course, the need for Emergency Radio Communications will only be necessary when the commercial communications providers (i.e. Internet and Cellular Phone system) has been disrupted.
We are also working on a more detailed "Local Agreement", that will support the MOU. There are a series of Video Conferences schedule with the Red Cross and the ARRL/ARES, to finalize the plan.
Page 12 of 12 of the existing Red Cross and ARRL MOU
During a Red Cross Disaster Relief Operation (DRO), ARRL volunteers may perform in any of the following roles. These are examples of actual roles; they may or may not actually be included in all operations depending on the need of the operation. It is possible that one person can support multiple rolls or one role may require support from several people. This is not an exhaustive list and ARRL volunteers who are assigned roles by the Red Cross during a DRO will be provided with Red Cross credentials as required by the role, consistent with Red Cross Policy.
Amateur Radio Liaison : This role is for a person who is familiar with both Red Cross and local amateur radio operations. This role would establish contact with the local ARES unit, amateur radio club and repeater owners to provide a single technical-level point of contact for the DRO. If local agreements already exist, this role could be pre-designated. It would be expected that this role would be linked to a similar role in the partner organization.
Communication Equipment Operator : This is a standard radio operator role for someone who would operate a two-way radio or other communication device at a fixed facility or mobile/portable location to support the DRO. They would pass messages from point to point either directly or through a message relay. Operators may use DRO-issued equipment or personally-owned equipment, and they may be on amateur radio frequencies or frequencies coordinated or licensed by the Red Cross.
Communication Equipment Installation/Repair : This is a more technical hands-on-role than the Operator. In this role, the person would be asked to temporarily install two-way radio equipment into a facility or vehicle that is under Red Cross authority through ownership, lease or rental. The equipment could include base-station radios, mobile radios and appropriate antenna. Equipment may also require field repairs, such as the radios installed into Red Cross emergency response vehicles (ERVs).
Disaster Assessment : Individuals who have the necessary training with the Red Cross can assess the damage caused a disaster, and use their radio skills to relay that information back to a central point that will use the information to develop a complete picture of the event.
End of page 12 of 12 of the Red Cross and ARRL MOU
If this opportunity to use your Amateur Radio License is appealing to you, please send an email to Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET) Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator and I will add you to the list of Volunteers for this humanitarian program.
2. We have started planning a similar drill described below, for our 2023 Simulate Emergency Test (SET) for October
ARES/CERT Flood Preparedness Drills in Northwestern Washington.
Flooding in Sumas, Washington and Abbotsford, British Columbia, November 2021 - In that November, Whatcom County, Washington and southern British Columbia experienced the worst flooding in 30 years. The Nooksack River overflow significantly impacted the communities in the floodplain and extended across the border into Abbotsford, BC, as well. Stream overflows also flooded several major streets in Bellingham, WA, during the same period. Cross-border damage caused by the flooding has been estimated in the billions.
In the after-action review of the flooding, Fire District One (FD1) in Whatcom County (which serves the flooded area) noted the lack of real-time situation reports from the flooding areas. FD1 reached out to the county ARES group, the Whatcom Emergency Communications Group (WECG), to develop a plan for future flood events.
WECG had been using the mapping software Caltopo/Sartopo (https://training.caltopo.com/firstresponse/course) in conjunction with county Search and Rescue. WECG put together an exercise using ARES and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) volunteers in field teams to demonstrate the use of the mapping app. Field teams reported hypothetical flood situations via the Sartopo app or VHF and FRS radio. Situation reports (road closed, area flooded, etc.) were posted in real time on the master map at the EOC. In addition, some teams were able to provide drone footage to the EOC. The FD1 chief and the chiefs from neighboring fire districts were able to monitor the exercise as it progressed.
The City of Bellingham's ACS group has run a similar exercise using Sartopo, mimicking the 2021 flood experience. In addition to the use of Sartopo, radio and CERT teams also sent in digital reports and photos using Winlink and fldigi.
Bellingham's Emergency Manager was able to follow the exercise live on the EOC master map. See the final map indicating field team routes and reports. Whatcom County has now incorporated the field team/Sartopo mapping approach in to its flood preparedness planning. Cross border emergency managers have also developed coordinated flood response plans. - Jim McCabe, AE7UQ, Whatcom County ARES Emergency Coordinator; and Jim Blattner, KC7JB, Whatcom Emergency Communications Group.
If you want to learn more about the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in South Jersey and its current partnership with ARES, please send an email to Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET) Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator.
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
1. First and Foremost....Partnering with the American Red Cross
We are making progress with the Partnership between the Red Cross and the ARRL. Below is page 12 of 12 of the current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that roughly describes the roles that ARES will provide to the NJ Region of the Red Cross when their is a need for the Red Cross to activate ARES during a Disaster Relief Operation (DRO). Of course, the need for Emergency Radio Communications will only be necessary when the commercial communications providers (i.e. Internet and Cellular Phone system) has been disrupted.
We are also working on a more detailed "Local Agreement", that will support the MOU. There are a series of Video Conferences schedule with the Red Cross and the ARRL/ARES, to finalize the plan.
Page 12 of 12 of the existing Red Cross and ARRL MOU
During a Red Cross Disaster Relief Operation (DRO), ARRL volunteers may perform in any of the following roles. These are examples of actual roles; they may or may not actually be included in all operations depending on the need of the operation. It is possible that one person can support multiple rolls or one role may require support from several people. This is not an exhaustive list and ARRL volunteers who are assigned roles by the Red Cross during a DRO will be provided with Red Cross credentials as required by the role, consistent with Red Cross Policy.
Amateur Radio Liaison : This role is for a person who is familiar with both Red Cross and local amateur radio operations. This role would establish contact with the local ARES unit, amateur radio club and repeater owners to provide a single technical-level point of contact for the DRO. If local agreements already exist, this role could be pre-designated. It would be expected that this role would be linked to a similar role in the partner organization.
Communication Equipment Operator : This is a standard radio operator role for someone who would operate a two-way radio or other communication device at a fixed facility or mobile/portable location to support the DRO. They would pass messages from point to point either directly or through a message relay. Operators may use DRO-issued equipment or personally-owned equipment, and they may be on amateur radio frequencies or frequencies coordinated or licensed by the Red Cross.
Communication Equipment Installation/Repair : This is a more technical hands-on-role than the Operator. In this role, the person would be asked to temporarily install two-way radio equipment into a facility or vehicle that is under Red Cross authority through ownership, lease or rental. The equipment could include base-station radios, mobile radios and appropriate antenna. Equipment may also require field repairs, such as the radios installed into Red Cross emergency response vehicles (ERVs).
Disaster Assessment : Individuals who have the necessary training with the Red Cross can assess the damage caused a disaster, and use their radio skills to relay that information back to a central point that will use the information to develop a complete picture of the event.
End of page 12 of 12 of the Red Cross and ARRL MOU
If this opportunity to use your Amateur Radio License is appealing to you, please send an email to Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET) Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator and I will add you to the list of Volunteers for this humanitarian program.
2. We have started planning a similar drill described below, for our 2023 Simulate Emergency Test (SET) for October
ARES/CERT Flood Preparedness Drills in Northwestern Washington.
Flooding in Sumas, Washington and Abbotsford, British Columbia, November 2021 - In that November, Whatcom County, Washington and southern British Columbia experienced the worst flooding in 30 years. The Nooksack River overflow significantly impacted the communities in the floodplain and extended across the border into Abbotsford, BC, as well. Stream overflows also flooded several major streets in Bellingham, WA, during the same period. Cross-border damage caused by the flooding has been estimated in the billions.
In the after-action review of the flooding, Fire District One (FD1) in Whatcom County (which serves the flooded area) noted the lack of real-time situation reports from the flooding areas. FD1 reached out to the county ARES group, the Whatcom Emergency Communications Group (WECG), to develop a plan for future flood events.
WECG had been using the mapping software Caltopo/Sartopo (https://training.caltopo.com/firstresponse/course) in conjunction with county Search and Rescue. WECG put together an exercise using ARES and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) volunteers in field teams to demonstrate the use of the mapping app. Field teams reported hypothetical flood situations via the Sartopo app or VHF and FRS radio. Situation reports (road closed, area flooded, etc.) were posted in real time on the master map at the EOC. In addition, some teams were able to provide drone footage to the EOC. The FD1 chief and the chiefs from neighboring fire districts were able to monitor the exercise as it progressed.
The City of Bellingham's ACS group has run a similar exercise using Sartopo, mimicking the 2021 flood experience. In addition to the use of Sartopo, radio and CERT teams also sent in digital reports and photos using Winlink and fldigi.
Bellingham's Emergency Manager was able to follow the exercise live on the EOC master map. See the final map indicating field team routes and reports. Whatcom County has now incorporated the field team/Sartopo mapping approach in to its flood preparedness planning. Cross border emergency managers have also developed coordinated flood response plans. - Jim McCabe, AE7UQ, Whatcom County ARES Emergency Coordinator; and Jim Blattner, KC7JB, Whatcom Emergency Communications Group.
If you want to learn more about the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in South Jersey and its current partnership with ARES, please send an email to Bob Keogh (KD2NEC@QSL.NET) Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - January 2023
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
THE NEW ARES
2022 ARES ACCOMPLISHMENTS
In 2022, we determined that ARES needed to partner with other Emergency Services Programs, in order to offer a more Comprehensive Solution, while still retaining the Amateur Radio EMCOMM Skills and Equipment.
Here are the dramatic changes we made together in 2022, starting partnerships with three well respected Programs :
1. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
2. Child Abduction Response Team (CART)
2023 ARES GOALS
1. Continue building on the what we started with CERT and CART
2. American Red Cross (ARC)
Wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
THE NEW ARES
2022 ARES ACCOMPLISHMENTS
In 2022, we determined that ARES needed to partner with other Emergency Services Programs, in order to offer a more Comprehensive Solution, while still retaining the Amateur Radio EMCOMM Skills and Equipment.
Here are the dramatic changes we made together in 2022, starting partnerships with three well respected Programs :
1. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
- Gloucester County does not have a CERT at the County Level. So a few of us joined the East Greenwich Township CERT and the Camden County CERT, to learn more about the program by going through the three day CERT Basic Training.
- The East Greenwich CERT was activated by the Gloucester County Office of Emergency Management to provide Damage Assessment after Hurricane Ida’s Tornado. We were activated again after the HASMAT incident in the Rt. 95 Truck Stop. These were both learning experiences for those of us that were deployed.
- We also supported the East Greenwich Police Department with Traffic Control during the Township’s public service events, such as their annual 5K Run and the Christmas Tree Lighting, which draws approximately 2,000 people from all over Gloucester County.
2. Child Abduction Response Team (CART)
- In April 2022 the Gloucester County Office of Emergency Management and the County Justice Department asked if we could provide volunteer support for their CART Certification Exercise. Gloucester County was the first in the State to exceed the requirements of this difficult certification. Now all 20 of the other counties in NJ are striving to do the same.
- The OEM and the Justice Department expressed their appreciation of our service and are looking forward to having us participate in future exercises. Of course, we all hope and pray we never have another actual Child Abduction.
- It was suggested that we work towards having our team of volunteers certified in Search and Rescue (SAR), in order to play a more active roll in this program.
2023 ARES GOALS
1. Continue building on the what we started with CERT and CART
- Develop relationships with FEMA and the Salvation Army who are two of our served agencies.
- Recruitment of new volunteers.
- Multi-Organizational Drills and Exercises with not only other ARES groups but also with Government and Non-Governmental agencies that we serve.
2. American Red Cross (ARC)
- We have recently made a very exciting connection with the American Red Cross of NJ to provide Radio Emergency Communications throughout New Jersey, when Commercial Communications have been disrupted or diminished, impacting the ARC’s ability to provide Disaster Services.
- They’re Disaster Services include opening shelters for people who have been evacuated from their homes and provide the best care possible for those people during and after the disaster. This can not be accomplished if they cannot communicate with their Head Quarter Offices, Logistical facilities and Transportation vehicles.
- As soon as the NJ OEM tells the ARC to open one or more shelters in NJ, they require ongoing situational reports.
- This is a State Wide Project and we (the SNJ Section) have already started working with our CNJ Section and NNJ Section counter parts. We hope to have an updated MOU and Local NJ Agreement in early 2023.
Wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - December 2022
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
The American Red Cross Needs Us and Our Radios.
If you’re watching the football games, you probably saw the T-Mobile commercial regarding the Disaster Recovery effort in Florida due to Hurricane Ian. After a whole month, there are still over 1,000 people still living in shelters.
Nobody expects us to deploy to Florida or California, although some NJ volunteers did go down.
Please take the time to read the Red Cross article at (http://bit.ly/3U3tkog) and also respond to the request below from Bill Kelly, NB1LL so you can learn more about the Red Cross Disaster Services Technology group from the expert.
Thanks!
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
The American Red Cross Needs Us and Our Radios.
If you’re watching the football games, you probably saw the T-Mobile commercial regarding the Disaster Recovery effort in Florida due to Hurricane Ian. After a whole month, there are still over 1,000 people still living in shelters.
Nobody expects us to deploy to Florida or California, although some NJ volunteers did go down.
Please take the time to read the Red Cross article at (http://bit.ly/3U3tkog) and also respond to the request below from Bill Kelly, NB1LL so you can learn more about the Red Cross Disaster Services Technology group from the expert.
Thanks!
HAM Operators Assisting The Red Cross During Disasters
October 18, 2022
Dear Fellow Amateur Radio Operators,
The American Red Cross (ARC) in New Jersey is working on a project where Amateur Radio Operators (HAMs) would support Red Cross internal emergency communications during a disaster. Red Cross sites can be shelters, warehouses, points of distribution, family reunification centers, community reception centers, and other sites where the Red Cross is supporting disaster response and recovery missions.
We are seeking HAMs to support these sites as a backup for conventional communications that may fail during a disaster. This work is in direct support of safety of life and protection of property (47 CFR § 97.403).
Currently, we are only looking for names of operators who would be interested in helping and their location within the state. The how will come after we know the who.
We are looking for HAMs to work as partners, either as an individual or with an organized group (club, ARES, RACES). We are not looking to take anyone away from their other committed roles, that they would perform for their communities.
We have split the state into three territories, North-Central-South, each containing seven counties, with communications being provided within the territories and the state.
The Red Cross will provide free disaster training to better understand what we are doing, as well as drills and exercises. Your commitment will be to attend training, drills, and exercises when you are able to and based on your ability to participate at the time that a disaster strikes. If you are interested in helping or learning more about this opportunity to use your amateur radio license in support of emergency communications in New Jersey, please fill out the form at the URL below.
73
ARC Assist Committee
Ed, K2BED
Mike, KC2UOA
Peter S, not yet licensed
Bill, NB1LL
Click the URL to open the form : https://forms.office.com/r/tqmB8cBV3F
Bill Kelly
Volunteer
American Red Cross, New Jersey Region
bill.kelly@redcross.org
October 18, 2022
Dear Fellow Amateur Radio Operators,
The American Red Cross (ARC) in New Jersey is working on a project where Amateur Radio Operators (HAMs) would support Red Cross internal emergency communications during a disaster. Red Cross sites can be shelters, warehouses, points of distribution, family reunification centers, community reception centers, and other sites where the Red Cross is supporting disaster response and recovery missions.
We are seeking HAMs to support these sites as a backup for conventional communications that may fail during a disaster. This work is in direct support of safety of life and protection of property (47 CFR § 97.403).
Currently, we are only looking for names of operators who would be interested in helping and their location within the state. The how will come after we know the who.
We are looking for HAMs to work as partners, either as an individual or with an organized group (club, ARES, RACES). We are not looking to take anyone away from their other committed roles, that they would perform for their communities.
We have split the state into three territories, North-Central-South, each containing seven counties, with communications being provided within the territories and the state.
The Red Cross will provide free disaster training to better understand what we are doing, as well as drills and exercises. Your commitment will be to attend training, drills, and exercises when you are able to and based on your ability to participate at the time that a disaster strikes. If you are interested in helping or learning more about this opportunity to use your amateur radio license in support of emergency communications in New Jersey, please fill out the form at the URL below.
73
ARC Assist Committee
Ed, K2BED
Mike, KC2UOA
Peter S, not yet licensed
Bill, NB1LL
Click the URL to open the form : https://forms.office.com/r/tqmB8cBV3F
Bill Kelly
Volunteer
American Red Cross, New Jersey Region
bill.kelly@redcross.org
ARRL Southern New Jersey Section Completes Simulated
Emergency Test
During the rainy and windy Saturday morning of October 1st about 91 amateur radio operators, sometimes referred to as HAMS, in Burlington, Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer, Ocean, and Salem Counties participated in a National Simulated Emergency Test, sometimes referred to as a DRILL or EXERCISE. The annual Simulated Emergency Test is promoted by the ARRL – The National Association for Amateur Radio while design of this exercise was accomplished locally by the Southern New Jersey Section of the ARRL under the leadership of Section Manager, Tom Preiser N2XW of Manahawkin.
Throughout the simulated exercise the Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) teams of licensed radio operators volunteered their time and personal equipment to practice providing backup emergency communications for served agencies. The DRILL participants in the 7 counties responded to a simulation that a duplicated series of severe weather events passing through Southern New Jersey. It was designed to be the same as a normal storm front which impacts different areas at different times with different conditions. This DRILL simulated disruptions of all electrical power, internet, and cellular services, forcing the amateur radio emergency service operators to only use radio frequencies for communications. In addition, the local teams did not know the weather conditions their county or group of counties were going to receive. However, teams had to monitor the Southern New Jersey Section Message/Traffic Network or a backup network for “Inject Incident Messages” containing the information. The Southern New Jersey Section Message/Traffic Network simulated the National Weather Service watches and warnings. The 11 “Inject Incident Messages requests the 7 county teams to react to simulated high winds, flooding, tornadoes, water spots, and derechos, plus how these weather events impacted communities.
During the morning simulation, the seven county teams plus the southern New Jersey Section Traffic Network Station and its backup processed over 280 messages, using both voice and digital communications modes. Some required providing severe weather reports to the National Weather Service. Others simulated sending and receiving messages for shelters that had to be established due to barrier island and coastal or river flooding. A third simulation was to provide local emergency management authorities with damage assessment reports, such as flooding, and blocked roads. The simulation requested all teams and network operators to utilize Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommended logging and message forms, which would be requested by served agencies in an actual emergency.
An added challenge was the effects of Ian’s remnants, rain, high winds, and flooding, occurring throughout the event. While adding realism, it required all teams and Section leadership to constantly monitor the need to shift from DRILL to higher status making reports to local NWS office by our SKYWARN volunteers and local served agencies.
The National Simulated Emergency Test goals focus on identification of strengths in emergency communications skills, as well as identify areas for improvement of the teams in Southern New Jersey. According to preliminary results this Southern New Jersey Simulated exercise achieved those goals. Several debriefing reports from teams stated, ‘the simulated emergency test was fun while challenging’. These debriefs suggested enhancements in operating procedures, additional training in digital message handling to improve accuracy, and technical ideas to research to upgrade radio networks. Efforts have already started on enhancing future operations.
Article Credit : ARRL Southern New Jersey Section for Ham Radio Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/arrl.southernnj) page, October 11, 2022
Emergency Test
During the rainy and windy Saturday morning of October 1st about 91 amateur radio operators, sometimes referred to as HAMS, in Burlington, Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer, Ocean, and Salem Counties participated in a National Simulated Emergency Test, sometimes referred to as a DRILL or EXERCISE. The annual Simulated Emergency Test is promoted by the ARRL – The National Association for Amateur Radio while design of this exercise was accomplished locally by the Southern New Jersey Section of the ARRL under the leadership of Section Manager, Tom Preiser N2XW of Manahawkin.
Throughout the simulated exercise the Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) teams of licensed radio operators volunteered their time and personal equipment to practice providing backup emergency communications for served agencies. The DRILL participants in the 7 counties responded to a simulation that a duplicated series of severe weather events passing through Southern New Jersey. It was designed to be the same as a normal storm front which impacts different areas at different times with different conditions. This DRILL simulated disruptions of all electrical power, internet, and cellular services, forcing the amateur radio emergency service operators to only use radio frequencies for communications. In addition, the local teams did not know the weather conditions their county or group of counties were going to receive. However, teams had to monitor the Southern New Jersey Section Message/Traffic Network or a backup network for “Inject Incident Messages” containing the information. The Southern New Jersey Section Message/Traffic Network simulated the National Weather Service watches and warnings. The 11 “Inject Incident Messages requests the 7 county teams to react to simulated high winds, flooding, tornadoes, water spots, and derechos, plus how these weather events impacted communities.
During the morning simulation, the seven county teams plus the southern New Jersey Section Traffic Network Station and its backup processed over 280 messages, using both voice and digital communications modes. Some required providing severe weather reports to the National Weather Service. Others simulated sending and receiving messages for shelters that had to be established due to barrier island and coastal or river flooding. A third simulation was to provide local emergency management authorities with damage assessment reports, such as flooding, and blocked roads. The simulation requested all teams and network operators to utilize Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommended logging and message forms, which would be requested by served agencies in an actual emergency.
An added challenge was the effects of Ian’s remnants, rain, high winds, and flooding, occurring throughout the event. While adding realism, it required all teams and Section leadership to constantly monitor the need to shift from DRILL to higher status making reports to local NWS office by our SKYWARN volunteers and local served agencies.
The National Simulated Emergency Test goals focus on identification of strengths in emergency communications skills, as well as identify areas for improvement of the teams in Southern New Jersey. According to preliminary results this Southern New Jersey Simulated exercise achieved those goals. Several debriefing reports from teams stated, ‘the simulated emergency test was fun while challenging’. These debriefs suggested enhancements in operating procedures, additional training in digital message handling to improve accuracy, and technical ideas to research to upgrade radio networks. Efforts have already started on enhancing future operations.
Article Credit : ARRL Southern New Jersey Section for Ham Radio Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/arrl.southernnj) page, October 11, 2022
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - September 2022
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
1. 2022 Simulated Emergency Test
This Exercise will be conducted on the morning of Saturday, October 1, 2022, between the hours of 0830 and 1100 Hours.
It will be conducted in the comfort of your home or a location of your choice. There will NOT be any requirements to travel or operate your radios in the field. This is strictly an operational test of your radio equipment and your emergency operational capabilities.
You do not have to be a member of Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) to participate in this exercise. Any licensed Amateur Radio Operator can enjoy the fun of being part of this exciting annual ARRL Nation Wide Exercise. If you have questions or would like to participate, simply send an email to Bob Keogh at KD2NEC@QSL.NET.
Below is an overview of the Severe Weather Related Incident and the Objectives of the exercise.
This is why we Train and Practice our Emergency Radio Communications Skills every Sunday night on the GCARC 147.180 MHz repeater.
We all hope and pray that we never see this type of disaster in our communities but we all need to be prepared.
"Hope for the best but be prepared for the worse"
Simulated Emergency Test Overview
THIS IS A DRILL THIS IS A DRILL THIS IS A DRILL
A band of Severe Thunderstorms with embedded tornadoes and Very Strong Winds are approaching Southern New Jersey from the Mid-West. To make matters worse, at the same time this storm reaches New Jersey, there is an astronomical high tide forecasted along the Atlantic Coast.
These severe storms have caused significant damage and disruption of transportation, power, internet, and other critical services in the Mid-West.
Preliminary weather predictions indicate, that severe storm bands will affect the entire region from Virginia to New Jersey. Forecasters are anticipating flash flooding from the rain fall, up to 3-5 inches per hour in isolated locations. Straight-line winds are predicted in the range of 70 to 90 mph, along with possible tornadoes/waterspouts.
National Objectives for ARRL Simulated Emergency Test
1. To discover the strengths and weaknesses of ARES, NTS, RACES, AUXCOMM, and other groups providing emergency communications.
2. To test the full range of systems under realistic conditions.
3. To provide a demonstration to served agencies of Amateur Radio’s value to the public in time of need.
4. To help operators gain experience using standard procedures and a variety of modes under simulated emergency conditions.
Local Southern New Jersey Section Objectives
1. To be able to set up emergency radio communications and process tactical and formal messages, during simulated severe weather events.
2. To utilize multiple radio frequencies to send and receive messages via repeaters or simplex using multiple modes to support served agencies.
3. To maintain Incident Command System (ICS-214) Activity Logs for all activities, including message handling, significant events, and all operations.
4. To be able to adjust our plan in real time, throughout the simulated exercise, based on changing weather conditions of the storm.
5. To communicate Damage Assessments to simulated served agencies, such as National Weather Service and each of the local county Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs).
6. To send and receive messages, to and from the American Red Cross Headquarters, and at the same time, sending Health and Welfare messages to family members of those people who had to evacuate their homes and are now staying in simulated Red Cross Shelters, across Southern New Jersey.
2. Developing a partnership with the American Red Cross
One of our Emergency Communicators, Doug KD2VQA, discovered a flyer from a Red Cross Recruiting Campaign, that has now led us into a viable opportunity to partner with the Southern New Jersey Chapter of the American Red Cross. The Red Cross is the organization that opens shelters for people who need to evacuate their homes during the threat of a severe storm.
We are proposing that we (ARES) partner with the ARC, to provide Radio Emergency Communications in those shelters. We will be providing Tactical Communications to and from the Shelters through out South Jersey, to the Chapter Headquarters. We will also provide Health and Welfare messages to and from Evacuees and their family members, when all other commercial communications system have been disrupted.
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
1. 2022 Simulated Emergency Test
This Exercise will be conducted on the morning of Saturday, October 1, 2022, between the hours of 0830 and 1100 Hours.
It will be conducted in the comfort of your home or a location of your choice. There will NOT be any requirements to travel or operate your radios in the field. This is strictly an operational test of your radio equipment and your emergency operational capabilities.
You do not have to be a member of Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) to participate in this exercise. Any licensed Amateur Radio Operator can enjoy the fun of being part of this exciting annual ARRL Nation Wide Exercise. If you have questions or would like to participate, simply send an email to Bob Keogh at KD2NEC@QSL.NET.
Below is an overview of the Severe Weather Related Incident and the Objectives of the exercise.
This is why we Train and Practice our Emergency Radio Communications Skills every Sunday night on the GCARC 147.180 MHz repeater.
We all hope and pray that we never see this type of disaster in our communities but we all need to be prepared.
"Hope for the best but be prepared for the worse"
Simulated Emergency Test Overview
THIS IS A DRILL THIS IS A DRILL THIS IS A DRILL
A band of Severe Thunderstorms with embedded tornadoes and Very Strong Winds are approaching Southern New Jersey from the Mid-West. To make matters worse, at the same time this storm reaches New Jersey, there is an astronomical high tide forecasted along the Atlantic Coast.
These severe storms have caused significant damage and disruption of transportation, power, internet, and other critical services in the Mid-West.
Preliminary weather predictions indicate, that severe storm bands will affect the entire region from Virginia to New Jersey. Forecasters are anticipating flash flooding from the rain fall, up to 3-5 inches per hour in isolated locations. Straight-line winds are predicted in the range of 70 to 90 mph, along with possible tornadoes/waterspouts.
National Objectives for ARRL Simulated Emergency Test
1. To discover the strengths and weaknesses of ARES, NTS, RACES, AUXCOMM, and other groups providing emergency communications.
2. To test the full range of systems under realistic conditions.
3. To provide a demonstration to served agencies of Amateur Radio’s value to the public in time of need.
4. To help operators gain experience using standard procedures and a variety of modes under simulated emergency conditions.
Local Southern New Jersey Section Objectives
1. To be able to set up emergency radio communications and process tactical and formal messages, during simulated severe weather events.
2. To utilize multiple radio frequencies to send and receive messages via repeaters or simplex using multiple modes to support served agencies.
3. To maintain Incident Command System (ICS-214) Activity Logs for all activities, including message handling, significant events, and all operations.
4. To be able to adjust our plan in real time, throughout the simulated exercise, based on changing weather conditions of the storm.
5. To communicate Damage Assessments to simulated served agencies, such as National Weather Service and each of the local county Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs).
6. To send and receive messages, to and from the American Red Cross Headquarters, and at the same time, sending Health and Welfare messages to family members of those people who had to evacuate their homes and are now staying in simulated Red Cross Shelters, across Southern New Jersey.
2. Developing a partnership with the American Red Cross
One of our Emergency Communicators, Doug KD2VQA, discovered a flyer from a Red Cross Recruiting Campaign, that has now led us into a viable opportunity to partner with the Southern New Jersey Chapter of the American Red Cross. The Red Cross is the organization that opens shelters for people who need to evacuate their homes during the threat of a severe storm.
We are proposing that we (ARES) partner with the ARC, to provide Radio Emergency Communications in those shelters. We will be providing Tactical Communications to and from the Shelters through out South Jersey, to the Chapter Headquarters. We will also provide Health and Welfare messages to and from Evacuees and their family members, when all other commercial communications system have been disrupted.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - August 2022
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
1. What Good is Winlink? (From the desk of Karl W2KBF)
Winlink is a radio messaging system that provides an email gateway between Amateur Radio and the Internet, such that a ham radio operator who is in an area without other means of communication can send an email message by radio to any Internet email address and receive email replies. A Radio Amateur might use Winlink from his/her home station if normal communications were disrupted temporarily due to violent weather, hacking or other disturbances. How else would you let your out of state relatives know that you are OK and not to worry? A Radio Amateur that finds himself in a Red Cross emergency shelter without cell phone or internet access could use Winlink to communicate with Red Cross, Office of Emergency Management (OEM) or other agencies.
Last year Jonathan WB2MNF and the GCARC Skunkworks Crew installed a WinLink Radio Message Server (RMS) at the Clubhouse and they continue to make improvements. W2MMD-3 can be reached on 145.030 MHz using the mode VARA FM or by VARA HF on 7106 kHz. The current antennas limit coverage but the station continues to evolve as the W2MMD Clubhouse recovers from tornado damage. Future enhancements under consideration include adding support for Packet radio and possibly a digipeater. Many other WinLink RMS stations are distributed throughout the USA and the world.
To get started with WinLink, browse to https://www.winlink.org.
2. Bike MS : City to the Shore Ride 2022
Although this is a planned "Public Service" Event versus an unplanned "Emergency Service", it is great practice for all Amateur Radio Operators.
Rather than trying to describe it myself, take a few minutes and watch this video. You won't be disappointed. https://youtu.be/mou0moNZ2AM
The event this year will be held on Saturday, September 24 through Sunday, September 25, 2022.
Also go to our Club’s website at https://gloucestercountyarc.weebly.com/bike-ms--walk-ms-events.html for the latest links and some past articles from Club members who participated in the event.
3. June ARES Training Nets
June 5 : 15 check ins
June 12 : 15 check ins
June 19 : 17 check ins
June 26 : 15 check ins
ARES Training Nets are conducted every Sunday Night at 2000 Hours on the 147.180 MHz repeater, PL 131.8 Hz and EchoLink W2MMD-R.
You do not have to be a member of ARES to check into this net. All licensed radio operators are welcome.
If anyone is interested in being part of ARES, or if you have any questions about the program, please contact me via e-mail at KD2NEC <at> QSL <dot> net.
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
1. What Good is Winlink? (From the desk of Karl W2KBF)
Winlink is a radio messaging system that provides an email gateway between Amateur Radio and the Internet, such that a ham radio operator who is in an area without other means of communication can send an email message by radio to any Internet email address and receive email replies. A Radio Amateur might use Winlink from his/her home station if normal communications were disrupted temporarily due to violent weather, hacking or other disturbances. How else would you let your out of state relatives know that you are OK and not to worry? A Radio Amateur that finds himself in a Red Cross emergency shelter without cell phone or internet access could use Winlink to communicate with Red Cross, Office of Emergency Management (OEM) or other agencies.
Last year Jonathan WB2MNF and the GCARC Skunkworks Crew installed a WinLink Radio Message Server (RMS) at the Clubhouse and they continue to make improvements. W2MMD-3 can be reached on 145.030 MHz using the mode VARA FM or by VARA HF on 7106 kHz. The current antennas limit coverage but the station continues to evolve as the W2MMD Clubhouse recovers from tornado damage. Future enhancements under consideration include adding support for Packet radio and possibly a digipeater. Many other WinLink RMS stations are distributed throughout the USA and the world.
To get started with WinLink, browse to https://www.winlink.org.
2. Bike MS : City to the Shore Ride 2022
Although this is a planned "Public Service" Event versus an unplanned "Emergency Service", it is great practice for all Amateur Radio Operators.
Rather than trying to describe it myself, take a few minutes and watch this video. You won't be disappointed. https://youtu.be/mou0moNZ2AM
The event this year will be held on Saturday, September 24 through Sunday, September 25, 2022.
Also go to our Club’s website at https://gloucestercountyarc.weebly.com/bike-ms--walk-ms-events.html for the latest links and some past articles from Club members who participated in the event.
3. June ARES Training Nets
June 5 : 15 check ins
June 12 : 15 check ins
June 19 : 17 check ins
June 26 : 15 check ins
ARES Training Nets are conducted every Sunday Night at 2000 Hours on the 147.180 MHz repeater, PL 131.8 Hz and EchoLink W2MMD-R.
You do not have to be a member of ARES to check into this net. All licensed radio operators are welcome.
If anyone is interested in being part of ARES, or if you have any questions about the program, please contact me via e-mail at KD2NEC <at> QSL <dot> net.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - July 2022
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
The articles in the July issue of QST, regarding the Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) and the new ARRL Director of Emergency Management, Josh Johnston KE5MHV are very exciting.
First, it’s easy to miss the article on page 9, from the ARRL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) David Minster NA2AA but its very important to hear him start by saying “EMCOMM is a hallmark of our hobby” and that half of new hams become amateur radio operators to pursue activity in emergency communications. He then goes on to talk about the differences between ARES and AUXCOMM and how he plans to better support our EMCOMM field services programs.
The next article you should read is the monthly “Public Services” article on pages 74 and 75. This is an interview with Josh Johnston KE5MHV, our new Director of Emergency Management. He has a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience in emergency field services and how he has been building a committee to create a better line of communication between Headquarters and the Local amateurs and programs in the field. As he said, this has been long over due and exciting to hear.
On page 68, there is a good article about the New Board Committee, to improve, Programs, Services, and Training for EMCOMM. Not any details yet but still very promising.
Last but not least, on page 65 - 67, there is a description of our National Simulated Emergency Test (SET) in 2021, where the Gloucester County ARES team, under the leadership of Karl Frank W2KBF, finished second in the South Jersey Section. The 2022 SET will be in the fall and we could use a few more operators to take first place away from Ocean County. More information will be available as we enter into the fall season.
There are a couple of other articles about ARES activations in this month’s QST magazine. More publicity about ARES than I have ever seen.
Also, take particular notice to the State Police Communications Van and its antennas on the cover page. Impressive, but we still have many roles to play during large regional disasters and interruptions to commercial communication systems. The government and non-government emergency agencies do not have the necessary resources, and recognize the need for volunteers
If anyone is interested in being part of ARES, or if you have any questions about the program, please contact me via e-mail at KD2NEC <at> QSL <dot> net.
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
The articles in the July issue of QST, regarding the Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) and the new ARRL Director of Emergency Management, Josh Johnston KE5MHV are very exciting.
First, it’s easy to miss the article on page 9, from the ARRL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) David Minster NA2AA but its very important to hear him start by saying “EMCOMM is a hallmark of our hobby” and that half of new hams become amateur radio operators to pursue activity in emergency communications. He then goes on to talk about the differences between ARES and AUXCOMM and how he plans to better support our EMCOMM field services programs.
The next article you should read is the monthly “Public Services” article on pages 74 and 75. This is an interview with Josh Johnston KE5MHV, our new Director of Emergency Management. He has a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience in emergency field services and how he has been building a committee to create a better line of communication between Headquarters and the Local amateurs and programs in the field. As he said, this has been long over due and exciting to hear.
On page 68, there is a good article about the New Board Committee, to improve, Programs, Services, and Training for EMCOMM. Not any details yet but still very promising.
Last but not least, on page 65 - 67, there is a description of our National Simulated Emergency Test (SET) in 2021, where the Gloucester County ARES team, under the leadership of Karl Frank W2KBF, finished second in the South Jersey Section. The 2022 SET will be in the fall and we could use a few more operators to take first place away from Ocean County. More information will be available as we enter into the fall season.
There are a couple of other articles about ARES activations in this month’s QST magazine. More publicity about ARES than I have ever seen.
Also, take particular notice to the State Police Communications Van and its antennas on the cover page. Impressive, but we still have many roles to play during large regional disasters and interruptions to commercial communication systems. The government and non-government emergency agencies do not have the necessary resources, and recognize the need for volunteers
If anyone is interested in being part of ARES, or if you have any questions about the program, please contact me via e-mail at KD2NEC <at> QSL <dot> net.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - June 2022
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
You may have already read this Gloucester County Times Article (https://bit.ly/39iqCKb) or heard the chatter among some of our GCARC members, regarding this very successful exercise, held on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 in Malaga.
It was a full blown, Multi-Governmental Agency Exercise, using Law Enforcement from many of the surrounding counties, as well as the Federal Government, using all the latest technology such as drones, aircraft and a state-of-the-art, Mobile Communication Command Center. Very impressive! See the article for all the details and pictures.
I want to take this opportunity to first thank the seven other GCARC Volunteers who participated in this event:
See the picture below.
There were several others that were accepted into the CART Program but could not make it to the exercise. There will be other opportunities.
Our volunteers were asked to perform duties, such as registering other volunteers that would just show up during events like this, feed leads to the dispatch system and when necessary, deliver those messages to the police road blocks, throughout the area. We also helped serve pizza to the team and clean up after the event ended.
Below are messages from the CART Volunteer Coordinator and the OEM Director thanking us for our participation :
From : Detective Colleen McCausland...
"On behalf of the CART team, we would like to thank all of you for your time and efforts today. We appreciate how eager all of you are to assist law enforcement and that we can rely on you. We look forward to meeting with all of you again, and hopefully setting up training in the near future."
From : Gloucester County OEM Director Dennis McNulty...
"Glad you and your colleagues were able to participate & contribute to what appears to have been a very successful exercise. Thank you for your interest and initiative."
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
You may have already read this Gloucester County Times Article (https://bit.ly/39iqCKb) or heard the chatter among some of our GCARC members, regarding this very successful exercise, held on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 in Malaga.
It was a full blown, Multi-Governmental Agency Exercise, using Law Enforcement from many of the surrounding counties, as well as the Federal Government, using all the latest technology such as drones, aircraft and a state-of-the-art, Mobile Communication Command Center. Very impressive! See the article for all the details and pictures.
I want to take this opportunity to first thank the seven other GCARC Volunteers who participated in this event:
- Irma N2FNF
- Doug KD2VQA
- Karl W2KBF
- Frank W2FJM
- Courtney KD2SPJ
- Jerry K2OOO
- Harry W3DNQ (Photographer)
See the picture below.
There were several others that were accepted into the CART Program but could not make it to the exercise. There will be other opportunities.
Our volunteers were asked to perform duties, such as registering other volunteers that would just show up during events like this, feed leads to the dispatch system and when necessary, deliver those messages to the police road blocks, throughout the area. We also helped serve pizza to the team and clean up after the event ended.
Below are messages from the CART Volunteer Coordinator and the OEM Director thanking us for our participation :
From : Detective Colleen McCausland...
"On behalf of the CART team, we would like to thank all of you for your time and efforts today. We appreciate how eager all of you are to assist law enforcement and that we can rely on you. We look forward to meeting with all of you again, and hopefully setting up training in the near future."
From : Gloucester County OEM Director Dennis McNulty...
"Glad you and your colleagues were able to participate & contribute to what appears to have been a very successful exercise. Thank you for your interest and initiative."
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - April 2022
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
Weather permitting, during TechSaturday, (April 9th), we will have on display in the club’s parking lot, the Portable Emergency Communications Amateur Radio Station. So come on out to see this portable station, with multiple Amateur Radios, HF, VHF/UHF and HT, along with antennas and power sources (including solar).
For the complete story of this “POD”, with pictures, click on the link below.
https://thepodrunner.com/recent_builds/cooper/
Update regarding the Child Abduction Response Team (CART)
If you have any interest in participating in this program, the County Is still looking for more volunteers. Simply send an email to the volunteer coordinator at svu@co.Gloucester.nj.us and request the application package.
If you would like more information regarding the CART program, the best source is Amber Advocates
www.amberadvocate.org/
The ARRL ARES news letter
For the latest information from the ARRL, regarding the activities, events and other information regarding Amateur Radio Emergency Services, click on the link below and subscribe to the ARES News Letter.
http://www.arrl.org/ares-letter
February ARES/RACES Net Check-Ins
- Week 1: 17 Check-Ins
- Week 2: no net due to NFL playoffs
- Week 3: 13 Check-Ins
- Week 4: 14 Check-ins
- 44 Total Check-ins for February
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - March 2022
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
1. Update regarding the Child Abduction Response Team (CART)
2. The ARRL ARES Newsletter
3. Local Training Nets
Besides the weekly GCARC-ARES Training Net on Sunday Nights @ 2000 Hours, below are a few other local resources you might want to take advantage of :
4. January ARES/RACES Net Check-Ins :
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
1. Update regarding the Child Abduction Response Team (CART)
- We are still in the planning phase, with the Gloucester County CART Program Coordinator (Lieutenant Stacie Lick), for an Implementation Exercise sometime in the spring (date to be determined). We are also still looking for additional volunteers, to add to the (18) GCARC members who have already volunteered. If you have any interest in participating, send me an email at kd2nec@qsl.net or if you would like more information regarding the CART program, the best source is Amber Advocates www.amberadvocate.org.
- Our willingness to participate in the planning and implementation of this program has advanced our relationship with the Gloucester County Office of Emergency Management, who is now interested in sponsoring us to start a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) at the county level, which has been our goal for the past year.
2. The ARRL ARES Newsletter
- For the latest information from the ARRL, regarding the activities, events and other information regarding Amateur Radio Emergency Services, click on the link and subscribe to the ARES News Letter - http://www.arrl.org/ares-letter
3. Local Training Nets
Besides the weekly GCARC-ARES Training Net on Sunday Nights @ 2000 Hours, below are a few other local resources you might want to take advantage of :
- The DigiNet : Digital Data Mode Training, conducted by Gary Mirkin, WA3SVW, on the first Monday of every month, using the Club's 147.180 MHz (PL 131.8) repeater and EchoLink W2MMD-R.
- The Five County Digital Training Net : To receive instructions for this training, you should send an email to Barry Feierman, K3EUI at k3euibarry@gmail.com and have him add you to fcdtn@groups.io.
- WinLink Wednesday : This is an excellent way to improve your WinLink skills, after you have WinLink installed and at least working on Telnet. Send an email to Tim Tonnesen, NJ2N at snjaresmat@yahoo.com and request that he add you to snjemcom@groups.io.
4. January ARES/RACES Net Check-Ins :
- Week 1 : 15 Check-Ins
- Week 2 : 18 Check-Ins
- Week 3 : 10 Check-Ins
- Week 4 : 15 Check-Ins
- Week 5 : 18 Check-Ins
- 76 Total Check-Ins
Amateur Radio Emergency Services Update - February 2022
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
1. ARRL CEO, David Minster's comment on a new committee focused on "Field Services".
2. New Initiatives :
Gloucester County Child Abduction Response Team (CART) Program
Harrison Township Emergency Services
3. ARES/RACES Net :
Due to the holidays in December, we only held three Sunday Training Nets :
4. Exercises :
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
1. ARRL CEO, David Minster's comment on a new committee focused on "Field Services".
- Here is an excerpt from David's article in the December 2021 issue of QST, starting on page 9 :
- "The Board has established a new standing committee focused on both EmComm and Field Services and we have hired a dedicated Field Services Manager, Mike Walters W8ZY, who has jumped right in, developing relationships and communications with Section Managers, as well as working to revitalize clubs through new initiatives”.
- This gives me hope that the ARRL will be modernizing the Emergency Services Programs such as ARES, in the near future. I will be looking for signs of this happening and will keep you all informed.
2. New Initiatives :
Gloucester County Child Abduction Response Team (CART) Program
- Immediately after sending the email out over the reflector to the GCARC, we received 18 messages back from Club members, stating that they wish to participate in this program. When I sent this to the Gloucester County Officials, they were very happy with our response and are ready to move forward with us.
- This program has reopened the door to the County OEM. The director has told me that he and his staff hope to use the same volunteers for other emergency programs, at the county level, where they should reside.
- So, please think about being part of the new Emergency Field Services Program by sending me an email stating that you would like to participate.
- I will talk more about this on the Sunday Night ARES/RACES Net.
Harrison Township Emergency Services
- Doug Dersch KD2VQA, who lives in Mullica Hill, has made contact with one of the Harrison Township OEM people and this has opened another door for us to provide our Emergency Field Services. Doug and I will hopefully be meeting with the OEM leadership in the near future, to determine how we should proceed.
- Yes, the recent tornado that ripped through Gloucester County in September has all of our OEMs looking for new ways to better manage emergencies and disasters.
- We should all be contacting the OEM in our respective townships to see how we can help them in the future. If you make the initial contact, I will be happy to attend a meeting with you.
3. ARES/RACES Net :
Due to the holidays in December, we only held three Sunday Training Nets :
- December 5, 2021 : 14 Check-ins
- December 12, 2021 : 15 Check-ins
- December 19, 2021 : 10 Check-ins
- Total for December 2021 : 39 Check-ins
4. Exercises :
- Due to the holidays and the new EC still getting his feet wet in December, we did not have any field exercises.
Our County OEM Is Asking For Our Support - January 2022
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
At last, our Gloucester County Director of Emergency Management, (Dennis McNulty) has come to us (GCARC), to request our Participation in the Child Abduction Response Team (CART - https://bit.ly/34vVC6K), that is in the process of being formed. This is HUGE and we cannot let him down. Many of you have told me that the primary reason you became involved in Amateur Radio was to provide a service to our community. This is our opportunity to do it!
By Bob Keogh, KD2NEC - Gloucester County Emergency Coordinator
At last, our Gloucester County Director of Emergency Management, (Dennis McNulty) has come to us (GCARC), to request our Participation in the Child Abduction Response Team (CART - https://bit.ly/34vVC6K), that is in the process of being formed. This is HUGE and we cannot let him down. Many of you have told me that the primary reason you became involved in Amateur Radio was to provide a service to our community. This is our opportunity to do it!
We’ve all seen the Amber Alerts on the bottom of our TV screen, on posters, and on our Smart Phones. The last time we had one here in Gloucester County was 10 years ago when Autumn Pasquale was abducted in Clayton NJ. That case was all over the news and social media for days and tugged at all of our hearts.
Our role as volunteers will be to provide support services to the County Justice Department, which has overall responsibility for the CART program. These services could include, behind the scenes tasks, such as distribution of posters, distribution of food and water, staff hot line calls and providing Emergency Communications during a search. So, you could even include your family members.
There will be more definitive information provided in the near future, including a presentation by the County CART Coordinator, Lt. Stacie Lick.
As your GCARC Emergency Coordinator, I’m asking for you to please consider participating in this program.
Thank you!
Our role as volunteers will be to provide support services to the County Justice Department, which has overall responsibility for the CART program. These services could include, behind the scenes tasks, such as distribution of posters, distribution of food and water, staff hot line calls and providing Emergency Communications during a search. So, you could even include your family members.
There will be more definitive information provided in the near future, including a presentation by the County CART Coordinator, Lt. Stacie Lick.
As your GCARC Emergency Coordinator, I’m asking for you to please consider participating in this program.
Thank you!
ARRL SET - October 2, 2021 Highlights
By Chris Prioli, AD2CS
Here are some photos of Mike Mollet, N2SRO and myself in Mike's ham shack operating as NCS operators for the SET. Mike was command and control NCS, while I was general traffic NCS. It ran from 0900 Hours to 1100 Hours and it went very well.
By Chris Prioli, AD2CS
Here are some photos of Mike Mollet, N2SRO and myself in Mike's ham shack operating as NCS operators for the SET. Mike was command and control NCS, while I was general traffic NCS. It ran from 0900 Hours to 1100 Hours and it went very well.
ARRL Simulated Emergency Test Update - September 23, 2021
By Karl Frank, W2KBF, Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator
The Gloucester County Amateur Radio Emergency Service (GC-ARES) will conduct their annual Simulated Emergency Test (SET) on Saturday, October 2, 2021 from 9:00am to about 12:00pm. All Radio Amateurs are invited to participate, whether or not you are registered with ARES. We will find something for you to do, particularly if you have FLDIGI and/or WinLink capabilities.
More information and practice in message handling will be provided during the weekly Sunday evening ARES/RACES Training Net at 8:00pm on the W2MMD 2 Meter repeater and EchoLink W2MMD-R.
By Karl Frank, W2KBF, Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator
The Gloucester County Amateur Radio Emergency Service (GC-ARES) will conduct their annual Simulated Emergency Test (SET) on Saturday, October 2, 2021 from 9:00am to about 12:00pm. All Radio Amateurs are invited to participate, whether or not you are registered with ARES. We will find something for you to do, particularly if you have FLDIGI and/or WinLink capabilities.
More information and practice in message handling will be provided during the weekly Sunday evening ARES/RACES Training Net at 8:00pm on the W2MMD 2 Meter repeater and EchoLink W2MMD-R.
The 2021 ARRL Simulated Emergency Test (SET) Is Just Ahead
The weekend of October 2 - 3 is designated for holding the annual ARRL Simulated Emergency Test (SET), although local and Section-level exercises may take place throughout the fall.
The SET is ARRL's primary national emergency exercise and is designed to assess the skills and preparedness of Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES®) volunteers, as well as those affiliated with other organizations involved in emergency and disaster response. It encourages maximum participation by all radio amateurs, partner organizations, and national, state, and local officials who typically engage in emergency or disaster response.
The SET encourages maximum participation by all radio amateurs, partner organizations, and national, state, and local officials who typically engage in emergency or disaster response.
In addition to ARES volunteers, those active in the National Traffic System (NTS™), Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), National Weather Service (NWS) SKYWARN®, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), and a variety of other allied groups and public service-oriented radio amateurs are needed to fulfill important roles in this nationwide exercise.
The SET offers volunteers an opportunity to test equipment, modes, and skills under simulated emergency conditions and scenarios. Individuals can use the time to update a go-kit for use during deployments and to ensure their home station's operational capability in an emergency or disaster.
To get involved, contact your local ARRL Emergency Coordinator or Net Manager.
Article Credit : The ARRL Letter for September 16, 2021 - www.arrl.org
The weekend of October 2 - 3 is designated for holding the annual ARRL Simulated Emergency Test (SET), although local and Section-level exercises may take place throughout the fall.
The SET is ARRL's primary national emergency exercise and is designed to assess the skills and preparedness of Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES®) volunteers, as well as those affiliated with other organizations involved in emergency and disaster response. It encourages maximum participation by all radio amateurs, partner organizations, and national, state, and local officials who typically engage in emergency or disaster response.
The SET encourages maximum participation by all radio amateurs, partner organizations, and national, state, and local officials who typically engage in emergency or disaster response.
In addition to ARES volunteers, those active in the National Traffic System (NTS™), Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), National Weather Service (NWS) SKYWARN®, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), and a variety of other allied groups and public service-oriented radio amateurs are needed to fulfill important roles in this nationwide exercise.
The SET offers volunteers an opportunity to test equipment, modes, and skills under simulated emergency conditions and scenarios. Individuals can use the time to update a go-kit for use during deployments and to ensure their home station's operational capability in an emergency or disaster.
To get involved, contact your local ARRL Emergency Coordinator or Net Manager.
Article Credit : The ARRL Letter for September 16, 2021 - www.arrl.org
Amateur Radio Demonstration - September 21, 2021
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
The East Greenwich Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) was given a demonstration of Amateur Radio at their Meeting on September 21. Bob Keogh KD2NEC set up an ID-880H radio at the East Greenwich OEM, connected it to a temporary outdoor antenna and at approximately 7:15 PM called an ARES Demonstration Net on the W2MMD 2 Meter Repeater. Stations checking in included Frank Messick W2FJM, Greg Ciraula W5DO, Charlie Wahl KC2STO, Steve Farney W2SEF, Jerry Patterson WW2WTF, Doug Dersch KD2VQA, Chris Prioli AD2CS, Mike Mollet N2SRO, Mike Harla N2MHO, Lee Marino N2LAM, and Karl Frank W2KBF. Ten members of the CERT group were in attendance along with their Emergency Management Coordinator, Lt. Kyle Messick.
Following Bob's radio demonstration, Karl Frank W2KBF provided an overview of the capabilities of radio messaging via WinLink. Everyone in attendance expressed their appreciation for the radio demonstration and presentation and there were many questions that were answered. As a member of East Greenwich CERT, Bob looks forward to working with the CERT leadership to develop and test a Communications Plan for Emergency and Planned Events in that Township and hopes that similar programs can be established in other Municipalities in and around Gloucester County.
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
The East Greenwich Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) was given a demonstration of Amateur Radio at their Meeting on September 21. Bob Keogh KD2NEC set up an ID-880H radio at the East Greenwich OEM, connected it to a temporary outdoor antenna and at approximately 7:15 PM called an ARES Demonstration Net on the W2MMD 2 Meter Repeater. Stations checking in included Frank Messick W2FJM, Greg Ciraula W5DO, Charlie Wahl KC2STO, Steve Farney W2SEF, Jerry Patterson WW2WTF, Doug Dersch KD2VQA, Chris Prioli AD2CS, Mike Mollet N2SRO, Mike Harla N2MHO, Lee Marino N2LAM, and Karl Frank W2KBF. Ten members of the CERT group were in attendance along with their Emergency Management Coordinator, Lt. Kyle Messick.
Following Bob's radio demonstration, Karl Frank W2KBF provided an overview of the capabilities of radio messaging via WinLink. Everyone in attendance expressed their appreciation for the radio demonstration and presentation and there were many questions that were answered. As a member of East Greenwich CERT, Bob looks forward to working with the CERT leadership to develop and test a Communications Plan for Emergency and Planned Events in that Township and hopes that similar programs can be established in other Municipalities in and around Gloucester County.
Bob Keogh, KD2NEC
Amateur Radio Demonstrations - August 5 and September 21, 2021
By Karl Frank, W2KBF, Gloucester County ARES Coordinator
As Bob Keogh, KD2NEC, announced on the Sunday, July 25, 2021 ARES/RACES Net, he is planning a demonstration of Amateur Radio at the East Greenwich CERT Meeting on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 around 1915 Hours. He is looking for contacts via the W2MMD 2 Meter Repeater and EchoLink W2MMD-R during his demonstration. So pencil in this date.
Mike Harla N2MHO is planning a similar demonstration on August 5, 2021. See the message below.
Hello,
Cumberland County ARES/RACES will host a demonstration of Amateur Radio modes & techniques on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at the Port Elizabeth School on Route 47 from about 1700 to 2030 Hours.
It would help if operators could listen during this period for our station call KC2TXB/2, to be available on the other end for contacts we might make.
We plan on doing demonstrations of HF and VHF voice, WSPR and possibly other digital modes.
We will use the repeater on 146.805 MHz/PL 118.8, with 145.490 MHz/PL 179.9 repeater as backup. We will also monitor the SCERN C4FM network as time allows.
We will try to hold a net on 146.805 MHz between 1930 to 2030 Hours. Other nets may be scheduled as time allows.
Please join us on August 5th as we work to build awareness of Amateur Radio.
Thanks,
Michael Harla, N2MHO
ARES/RACES Officer
Cumberland County
Vineland, NJ
By Karl Frank, W2KBF, Gloucester County ARES Coordinator
As Bob Keogh, KD2NEC, announced on the Sunday, July 25, 2021 ARES/RACES Net, he is planning a demonstration of Amateur Radio at the East Greenwich CERT Meeting on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 around 1915 Hours. He is looking for contacts via the W2MMD 2 Meter Repeater and EchoLink W2MMD-R during his demonstration. So pencil in this date.
Mike Harla N2MHO is planning a similar demonstration on August 5, 2021. See the message below.
Hello,
Cumberland County ARES/RACES will host a demonstration of Amateur Radio modes & techniques on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at the Port Elizabeth School on Route 47 from about 1700 to 2030 Hours.
It would help if operators could listen during this period for our station call KC2TXB/2, to be available on the other end for contacts we might make.
We plan on doing demonstrations of HF and VHF voice, WSPR and possibly other digital modes.
We will use the repeater on 146.805 MHz/PL 118.8, with 145.490 MHz/PL 179.9 repeater as backup. We will also monitor the SCERN C4FM network as time allows.
We will try to hold a net on 146.805 MHz between 1930 to 2030 Hours. Other nets may be scheduled as time allows.
Please join us on August 5th as we work to build awareness of Amateur Radio.
Thanks,
Michael Harla, N2MHO
ARES/RACES Officer
Cumberland County
Vineland, NJ
FM Simplex Test
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
On Sunday, March 21, 2021, Gloucester County ARES/RACES conducted a FM Simplex Test as part of the weekly net that is held 8 PM every Sunday on the W2MMD 2M Repeater. The purpose of this test was a) to gather data on how messages might be passed during a communications emergency in the event the repeater is not available and b) to allow operators to evaluate how well their stations are getting out. All radio amateurs were invited to participate and we had several check-ins from Salem, Cumberland, and Camden Counties. Upon check in, each station was asked to QSY to 146.535 MHz and make a brief test transmission, then return to the repeater frequency. All other participating stations also tuned to 146.535 MHz and recorded signal reports, which were forwarded to GC-ARES Coordinator Karl W2KBF. Results are shown in the following table :
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
On Sunday, March 21, 2021, Gloucester County ARES/RACES conducted a FM Simplex Test as part of the weekly net that is held 8 PM every Sunday on the W2MMD 2M Repeater. The purpose of this test was a) to gather data on how messages might be passed during a communications emergency in the event the repeater is not available and b) to allow operators to evaluate how well their stations are getting out. All radio amateurs were invited to participate and we had several check-ins from Salem, Cumberland, and Camden Counties. Upon check in, each station was asked to QSY to 146.535 MHz and make a brief test transmission, then return to the repeater frequency. All other participating stations also tuned to 146.535 MHz and recorded signal reports, which were forwarded to GC-ARES Coordinator Karl W2KBF. Results are shown in the following table :
Gloucester County ARES Participates in American Red Cross Drill
By Karl Frank, W2KBF, GC-ARES Coordinator
On Saturday, November 14 hundreds of radio amateurs across the USA participated in a joint ARES/ARC emergency communications drill. The purpose was to test the ability of ARES operators to deliver digital messages to the Red Cross using the WINLINK Radio Messaging System. Two Gloucester County ARES members, Jerry WW2WTF and Karl W2KBF, successfully transmitted drill messages using WINLINK and received confirmation of receipt from the appropriate Red Cross Divisional Clearinghouse Station (tactical Call ARCNORTHEAST). Digital messaging using FLDIGI and WINLINK has gained importance in the EMCOMM community and is practiced during the weekly GC-ARES/RACES Training Net on Sunday evenings over the W2MMD 2 Meter repeater.
By Karl Frank, W2KBF, GC-ARES Coordinator
On Saturday, November 14 hundreds of radio amateurs across the USA participated in a joint ARES/ARC emergency communications drill. The purpose was to test the ability of ARES operators to deliver digital messages to the Red Cross using the WINLINK Radio Messaging System. Two Gloucester County ARES members, Jerry WW2WTF and Karl W2KBF, successfully transmitted drill messages using WINLINK and received confirmation of receipt from the appropriate Red Cross Divisional Clearinghouse Station (tactical Call ARCNORTHEAST). Digital messaging using FLDIGI and WINLINK has gained importance in the EMCOMM community and is practiced during the weekly GC-ARES/RACES Training Net on Sunday evenings over the W2MMD 2 Meter repeater.
ARRL Simulated Emergency Test (SET)
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
Update : October 3, 2020
The SET went well today. Thanks to all who sent and received drill messages and special thanks to Bob KD2NEC for serving as NCS, Michael N2SRO for serving as alternate NCS and Liaison to OEM and Jim N2GXJ for serving as SKYWARN liaison. By my count, we handled 7 reports of severe weather and 5 reports of severe damage. Eight of these messages were digital, either with FLDIGI/FLMSG or Winlink. Perhaps we can collect feedback during the Sunday night ARES/RACES Net when Bruce KD2LBU will be NCS.
Participants :
Karl Frank, W2KBF
Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator
kbfrank3@verizon.net
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
Update : October 3, 2020
The SET went well today. Thanks to all who sent and received drill messages and special thanks to Bob KD2NEC for serving as NCS, Michael N2SRO for serving as alternate NCS and Liaison to OEM and Jim N2GXJ for serving as SKYWARN liaison. By my count, we handled 7 reports of severe weather and 5 reports of severe damage. Eight of these messages were digital, either with FLDIGI/FLMSG or Winlink. Perhaps we can collect feedback during the Sunday night ARES/RACES Net when Bruce KD2LBU will be NCS.
Participants :
- KD2NEC, Bob (NCS)
- N2SRO, Michael (alternate NCS and OEM liaison)
- N2GXJ, Jim (SKYWARN liaison)
- WA3SVW, Gary
- W2FJM, Frank
- W2KBF, Karl
- W2OC, Mark
- KD2URI, Jerry
- WA3KOL, Bob (Salem County ARES liaison)
- KD2LBU, Bruce
- KC2VAR, Marc
- KB2RTZ, Steve (NTS liaison)
- KC2STO, Charlie
- WB2ALJ, Tom (DEC)
Karl Frank, W2KBF
Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator
kbfrank3@verizon.net
ARES 2020 Simulated Emergency Test Is Scheduled For October 3, 2020
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
Update : September 21, 2020
Gloucester County Radio Amateurs are preparing for the annual ARRL/ARES 2020 Simulated Emergency Test (SET) that will take place on Saturday, October 3rd. The purpose of the annual SET is for amateur radio operators to apply their emergency communications skills in a realistic simulation of an emergency event that could occur. The SET is not a contest, but an opportunity to practice operating. All interested Radio Amateurs are invited to participate; membership in ARRL, ARES, or RACES is not required. If you are interested in emergency communications, but have not registered with ARES or RACES, you still can give EMCOMM a try by contacting Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator Karl W2KBF (w2kbf (at) arrl (dot) net) and I will find a role for you.
GC-ARES has requested and received permission from GCARC to use the W2MMD 2-meter repeater to coordinate this exercise (we also will use 146.535 MHz FM simplex). Activation of the SET will be announced over the repeater on Saturday and stations checking in will receive assignments. We will be simulating a communications failure due to a “Derecho” weather event and will focus primarily on serving the regional office of the National Weather Service and County Office of Emergency Management. Volunteers may be asked to compose and send reports of simulated storm damage and/or relay messages from other stations using simplex. Due to the Pandemic, social distancing will be observed and it will not be necessary for anyone to operate outside of their own home or mobile stations. Doesn’t this sound like good, clean fun with radio?
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
Update : September 21, 2020
Gloucester County Radio Amateurs are preparing for the annual ARRL/ARES 2020 Simulated Emergency Test (SET) that will take place on Saturday, October 3rd. The purpose of the annual SET is for amateur radio operators to apply their emergency communications skills in a realistic simulation of an emergency event that could occur. The SET is not a contest, but an opportunity to practice operating. All interested Radio Amateurs are invited to participate; membership in ARRL, ARES, or RACES is not required. If you are interested in emergency communications, but have not registered with ARES or RACES, you still can give EMCOMM a try by contacting Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator Karl W2KBF (w2kbf (at) arrl (dot) net) and I will find a role for you.
GC-ARES has requested and received permission from GCARC to use the W2MMD 2-meter repeater to coordinate this exercise (we also will use 146.535 MHz FM simplex). Activation of the SET will be announced over the repeater on Saturday and stations checking in will receive assignments. We will be simulating a communications failure due to a “Derecho” weather event and will focus primarily on serving the regional office of the National Weather Service and County Office of Emergency Management. Volunteers may be asked to compose and send reports of simulated storm damage and/or relay messages from other stations using simplex. Due to the Pandemic, social distancing will be observed and it will not be necessary for anyone to operate outside of their own home or mobile stations. Doesn’t this sound like good, clean fun with radio?
ARRL Simulated Emergency Test (SET)
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
Update : August 31, 2020
The Annual ARRL Simulated Emergency Test (SET) will take place during the weekend of October 3 and 4 (see pg. 64 of the September QST) and Gloucester County ARES will participate. Why am I sending this to the entire GCARC Membership? While I anticipate participation mainly from GC-ARES and GC-RACES personnel I also am open to participation from radio amateurs who are interested in Emergency Communications but are not registered with ARES or RACES. I suspect that, during an actual communications emergency, several Radio Amateurs may be on the air trying to help out, whether or not registered with ARES/RACES, and I would rather have you participate during this drill rather than remain on the sidelines.
This test has multiple purposes but, fundamentally, is meant to test the strengths and weakness of ARES, RACES, NTS and other groups in providing emergency communications. I am not authorized to reveal specific details but can tell you that it will involve a simulated weather-related disaster during which normal communications are disrupted.
At this time, I am NOT looking for commitments, but simply a list of people who MAY be interested in participating so that I can follow up later.
Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, SET 2020 will NOT require us to congregate at any point - all operations can take place without leaving our personal home and/or mobile stations. In particular, I will be looking for people who can serve as :
All stations will be encouraged to use emergency power for at least part of this exercise. This will be a great opportunity to test those batteries and generators.
Karl Frank, W2KBF
Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator
kbfrank3@verizon.net
By Karl Frank, W2KBF
Update : August 31, 2020
The Annual ARRL Simulated Emergency Test (SET) will take place during the weekend of October 3 and 4 (see pg. 64 of the September QST) and Gloucester County ARES will participate. Why am I sending this to the entire GCARC Membership? While I anticipate participation mainly from GC-ARES and GC-RACES personnel I also am open to participation from radio amateurs who are interested in Emergency Communications but are not registered with ARES or RACES. I suspect that, during an actual communications emergency, several Radio Amateurs may be on the air trying to help out, whether or not registered with ARES/RACES, and I would rather have you participate during this drill rather than remain on the sidelines.
This test has multiple purposes but, fundamentally, is meant to test the strengths and weakness of ARES, RACES, NTS and other groups in providing emergency communications. I am not authorized to reveal specific details but can tell you that it will involve a simulated weather-related disaster during which normal communications are disrupted.
At this time, I am NOT looking for commitments, but simply a list of people who MAY be interested in participating so that I can follow up later.
Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, SET 2020 will NOT require us to congregate at any point - all operations can take place without leaving our personal home and/or mobile stations. In particular, I will be looking for people who can serve as :
- Net Control Stations (we may have more than one Net)
- Digital Traffic Coordinator (we will use FLDIGI and Winlink in addition to traditional voice messaging)
- Liaison to other groups, e.g. SKYWARN, NTS, S.C.E.R.N. and served agencies (such as OEM and American Red Cross)
- Relay stations (in the event that we use simplex)
All stations will be encouraged to use emergency power for at least part of this exercise. This will be a great opportunity to test those batteries and generators.
Karl Frank, W2KBF
Gloucester County ARES Emergency Coordinator
kbfrank3@verizon.net
ARES Net, Sunday evenings at 8 PM on the 147.18 MHz (PL 131.8) repeater in Pitman, NJ. All Amateur Radio operators are welcome to join in. Our mission is to provide Emergency Communications capabilities to Gloucester County, NJ using the Amateur Radio Emergency Service.
We are affiliated with the Gloucester County Amateur Radio Club and the South Counties Emergency Radio Network (SCERN). Are you an Amateur Radio operator living in or near Gloucester County, NJ with an interest in Public Service and/or Emergency Communications? Come join us!
Gloucester Alert
Gloucester County uses Gloucester Alert to immediately contact you during a major crisis or emergency. Gloucester Alert delivers important emergency alerts, notifications and updates to you on all your devices:
When an incident or emergency occurs, authorized senders will instantly notify you using Gloucester Alert. This alert system is your personal connection to real-time updates, instructions on where to go, what to do, or what not to do, who to contact and other important information.
- e-mail account (work, home, other)
- cell phone
- text pager
- BlackBerry
- Palm pilot and/or PDA
When an incident or emergency occurs, authorized senders will instantly notify you using Gloucester Alert. This alert system is your personal connection to real-time updates, instructions on where to go, what to do, or what not to do, who to contact and other important information.