Paul Smith

MSG-104The ARRL Radiogram Note that this training requires a basic understanding of training modules MSG-101 through MSG-103. Please review those lessons for context. Although the ICS-213 form is to be used in a response using ICS, if the served agency requests the use of the ARRL Radiogram, then this form is to be used. This … Read more

MSG-103Basic Traffic Handling Via Nets Note that this training requires a basic understanding of training modules MSG-101 and MSG-102. Please review those lessons for context. Another of the magical ‘black arts’ available to the amateur radio operator is that of traffic handling. At the dawn of amateur radio in the early 1900’s the only practical … Read more

MSG-101Basic Message Parts All messages designed to be handled through the amateur radio traffic system consist of three (3) parts regardless of the form used: Addressee: This is the To: part of the message and consists of the full name, title, address for delivery, and telephone number. The sender of the message is the person … Read more

MSG-102Basic Message Forms Note that this training requires a basic understanding of training module MSG-101. Please review that lesson for context. From the most recent Basic Message Parts training, MSG-101, we now progress to the form or envelope that the amateur radio communicator must use in order to insure proper transmission of the message information … Read more

FMA-110Where Do We Fit In The Incident Command System (ICS)? In the Incident Command System (ICS), we fit NOWHERE in the organization until requested by the Incident Commander (IC). There is no position within the ICS for “walk-on” operators! If necessary, the Incident Commander (IC) will contact District 14 ARES leadership and request our help. … Read more

FMA-108Incident Command SystemResources and Facilities Written by kb5pgy This week will be my last week covering ICS fundamentals. I will be covering both the categories of resources available in ICS and the types of facilities available in ICS. I will also cover mobilization. Resources are grouped according to how they are deployed and their readiness … Read more

FMA-107 Incident Command System (ICS)Organizational Structure The ICS Organizational StructureLast week, I went over the basics of ICS. This week, I will describe the basic organizational structure of ICS. ICS is a modular organization that is based on the size and complexity of the incident. Incident Commander (IC)By definition, any ICS incident has an Incident … Read more

FMA-101Incident Command SystemHistory and Overview IntroductionThere has been considerable debate about the new requirements for Incident Command System (ICS) certification for all personnel responding to emergencies. Some of the comments I have seen are of the theme of “why should I have to learn yet another thing I will never need to actually use?” ICS … Read more

EME-122HOW REPEATERS ARE USED DURING EMERGENCIES Modified for Houston from original Mecklenburg County ARES© How are Repeaters used during Emergencies? Emergencies can come in all different sizes. Some are very small and some can affect our entire region. The primary purpose of repeaters is to have a method of communication during any emergency whether it … Read more

EME-121EMERGENCY OPERATIONS DEPLOYMENT Modified from original Waller County ARES training articlewritten by Christine Smith, N5CAS (sk) .We will discuss the steps necessary to set up, begin, and end operations in temporary locations, such as shelters in schools or churches, or temporary command centers at any location. Responding After The ActivationIf you already have your assignment, … Read more