Creating An Emergency Communication Plan For Your Neighborhood
Adapted from www.radiorelay.org
One effective method of communication during emergencies is through radio systems, specifically the Family Radio Service (FRS) and the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS), supplemented by amateur radio networks. These systems provide a survivable, decentralized means of communication when common commercial telecommunications fail.
Understanding FRS and GMRS Radios in Emergencies
FRS radios are low-power, short-range devices that don’t require a license to operate, making them ideal for neighborhood-level communication. GMRS radios, in contrast, allow for higher transmission power and longer range but require a license. Both services use channels in the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) spectrum and share interoperable capabilities, enabling neighbors to communicate efficiently when phone or internet services are down.
Role of Amateur Radio and the National SOS Radio Network
Licensed amateur radio operators serve as critical links to emergency management agencies when commercial networks fail. Through established networks such as the National SOS Radio Network, these trained volunteers monitor specific FRS channels (for example, channel one) during emergencies.
In practical terms, if a resident sends an emergency request on FRS channel one, a Ham radio volunteer can pick it up and relay the message to local emergency services using VHF or UHF frequencies appropriate for those official agencies. These volunteers may work with organizations such as the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) or Marion Emergency Radio Team (MERT) to create a seamless line of communication.
Additionally, amateur radio operators can transmit formal written messages called “radiograms.” These written notes can carry vital information across disaster zones via resilient communication networks like Winlink radio email. This capability extends assistance beyond voice communication, facilitating detailed and reliable information sharing.
Building a Neighborhood Emergency Communication Network
Creating an effective emergency communication plan for your neighborhood involves several steps:
Inventory Available Radios: Identify how many households have FRS or GMRS radios and encourage others to acquire them.
Establish Communication Channels: Designate primary and secondary FRS/GMRS channels for general communication and emergency alerts. Channel one on FRS is often monitored by Ham radio volunteers during disasters.
Connect with Local Amateur Radio Groups and VOADs: Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOADs) often partner with amateur radio clubs to coordinate response efforts. Engaging with these groups provides training, support, and access to broader communication networks.
Train Neighborhood Volunteers: Educate a core group of residents on how to effectively use radios, relay messages, and interface with volunteer Ham radio operators. Learning how to send radiograms can be a valuable skill.
Conduct Regular Drills: Practice communication drills periodically to identify any gaps and build confidence within the community.
The Force Multiplier Effect
This combined approach—using FRS/GMRS radios at a neighborhood level with amateur (Ham) radio networks as a bridge to official emergency services—maximizes available resources. It creates a “force multiplier” effect by leveraging local volunteer resources into a capable, flexible emergency communication network. This ensures messages get through when conventional systems fail and helps support the overall emergency response effort.
By integrating FRS and GMRS radios into a neighborhood emergency communication plan and collaborating with local Ham radio organizations, your community can establish a reliable, resilient communication system. Taking these proactive steps strengthens neighborhood preparedness and enhances the ability to respond effectively in times of disaster.
