Ward Emergency Communications Plan

[jcalkins0324]

I have called as our Ward Emergency Communications Specialist. The Bishop asked that I develop a plan for communications within the ward in the event there is no availability to use phones (Cell or landline), disruption of the Internet, and loss of commercial power. I have determined the best method is to use FRS/GMRS radios for this purpose.

However, I am concerned that using the FCC specified frequencies for these modes may cause over lap with other wards in out stake or other private citizens using these same channels at the same time. I an looking for suggestions on how best to do this. I am GMRS and Amateur Radio licensed as required by the FCC.

[Mikerowaved]

During a wide-spread emergency there's going to be a considerable amount of frequency sharing no matter if it's FRS/GMRS or the ham bands. I suggest using as low a power setting as possible to help with sharing the frequencies and always have a backup plan. Sometimes "BOB" (boy on bike) can be more efficient than waiting for a clear channel.

Also, don't use CTCSS for simplex communications on any radio service. You won't be able to hear others using the frequency (unless they happen to be using the same tone) and might step on something truly life threatening.

Start monitoring frequencies you're interested in using for other groups holding regular nets. If they're nearby, then try another frequency.

[mdigi]

Radio communication can definitely be very helpful (and crowded) when normal systems are down.

More thoughts that come to mind:
1) Who in the ward/stake has [Amateur/FRS/...] capabilities? Where do they live, relative to other members? (Depending on the size of your ward/stake, it may be necessary for some of your equipped members to utilize multiple bands to facilitate routing between HF/2M/FRS)
2) Generators? Fuel for the generators?
3) Member directory; Member Tools will generally work until your device runs out of power...or requires it sync with Church HQ. This is one of those times when a paper directory is preferred.
4) Maps; Printed maps are optimal. Devices that have power can continue to use (eg. Google Maps) IF the necessary offline maps have been downloaded ot the device before the internet is unavailable.
5) Paper & pens. Useful for tracking/distributing messages
6) Batteries (kept rotated) for handheld radios

[russellhltn]

However, I am concerned that using the FCC specified frequencies for these modes may cause over lap with other wards in out stake or other private citizens using these same channels at the same time. I an looking for suggestions on how best to do this. I am GMRS and Amateur Radio licensed as required by the FCC.

The first thing that comes to mind is "no plan survives first contact with the enemy", or Mike Tyson's "Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face".

A tentative plan is a good idea, but you need to be flexible. I'd put more focus on training and how to run and participate in a directed net. I've seen even licensed amateur struggle with simplex mode. They keep trying to transmit because they can't hear anything despite being told to standby. That works ok on a repeater when everyone can hear everyone else, but in in simplex.