The Three "P"s of Public
Service
By Gary Wilson, K2GW
Home Emcomm
March 17, 2003
As the possibility of war becomes more likely, it's important
that we as Amateur Radio operators are ready to assist if we are called on for
a local communications emergency. It's just as important that we don't over-react,
panic, or spread rumors.
Here's a quick reminder of what I consider the basic 3 P's
of Public Service, which are always valid, but even more important in these
times:
Preparedness
- Ensuring your family is protected. You can't help others
as an Amateur Radio Operator if you haven't planned for this. This requires:
- Having a written Family Disaster Plan. See "Together
We Prepare" at <http://www.redcross.org/> for how to do it.
- Maintaining a Family Disaster Supplies Kit with a
minimum of three days food. This is not "I probably have enough stuff
in my cupboard", but food dated and stored for immediate evacuation
if needed. A sample shopping list is attached. At the very least, having
such a kit prevents you from having to fight shopping lines when others
panic or a snowstorm approaches, and thus makes you available for public
service..
- Keeping a minimum of a half a tank of fuel in all vehicles.
- Knowing your county ARES/RACES plans, including your county
alert frequency and self-alerting assignments.
- Having appropriate equipment, antenna kits and interchangeable
emergency power sources.
- Keeping batteries charged and generators tested.
- Keeping your HT in your briefcase, purse, etc. with you
during heightened alerts.
Proficiency
- Knowing how government and agencies respond to disasters.
- Knowing how amateur radio supplements them.
- Knowing what to do and what not to do.
- Maintaining skill in tactical and formal message handling.
- Completing certification through the ARRL's Emergency
Communications courses.
Professionalism
- Attitude - Helping, not hindering
- Reliability - Being there when called
- Flexibility - Doing what is needed to get the job done.
- Thinking - Think before speaking especially concerning
government/military operations or using your radio as a soapbox for political
opinions.
- Appearance - Representing Amateur Radio in a favorable
light.
I know we can count on all of you to be prepared, proficient
and professional if we are called on to help our communities and country.
Thanks & 73
Gary Wilson, K2GW
Southern New Jersey Section Emergency Coordinator
The Four "S"s of Public Service
Last modified April 4, 2003