Paul Smith

SAF-109Carbon Monoxide Poisoning By Earl Pack, AE5PA CARBON MONOXIDE POISONINGCarbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, tasteless, and nearly odor free gas. Like a few other gases, CO is more readily absorbed by the red blood cells (hemoglobin) than is oxygen. In fact CO binds irreversibly to hemoglobin. As a result, oxygen is displaced by carbon … Read more

SAF-108HAZARDOUS MATERIAL AND CHEMICAL EMERGENCIES From the City Of Houston Preparedness GuideModified 09/2022 for optimum cell phone displayby Paul Smith, K5PRS WHAT ARE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS?Hazardous materials range from items that are flammable, corrosive, or can be irritating to the body’s natural processes. These hazards can exist during production, storage, transportation, use or disposal. Houston is … Read more

SAF-107Hide OR RunHurricane Characteristics Edited 09/2022 by Paul Smith, K5PRS Among other nasties, hurricanes are a particularly good source for spawning tornadoes. They also contain embedded cells of potentially lethal and destructive high winds which can lull the unwary. As these low-pressure systems spiral upward and gain power driven by warm surface air rising from … Read more

SAF-106How To Store GasolineFor An Emergency eHow ContributorEdited 09/2022 by Paul Smith, K5PRS If the power goes out or Mother Nature forces you to evacuate, you may need an emergency supply of gasoline. Extra gas will keep your generator running or keep your vehicle running when the gas stations go dry or loose power. The … Read more

SAF-103Heat Related Illnesses Here on the Gulf Coast we are not strangers to the extreme, summertime conditions of high temperatures coupled with high humidity. Events taking place during hot weather typically see heat illness as the bulk of the medical calls. You’ve probably way too often heard the line “it’s not the heat, it’s the … Read more

SAF-102Heat Advisory Updated 02 Aug 2025 by Paul Smith, K5PRS Here in the Houston Gulf Coastal area, we certainly are no strangers to the extreme summertime conditions of high temperatures and high humidity levels. Practicality dictates that we be aware of and take preparations to deal with these adverse weather conditions. “A heat advisory is … Read more

SAF-101Generator Safety Updated 09/2022 by Paul Smith, K5PRS Generators are a mainstay for prolonged EMCOMM work but they can be dangerous if not handled with respect. Tonight we will cover 14 important safety concerns to keep in mind when working on generators either at a base camp, at home or out in the field. That … Read more

PSV-110 Amateur Radio POD Operations Support Written by George Fletcher, AD5CQ IntroductionThis report recounts the experience of amateur radio operator George Fletcher, AD5CQ, who volunteered to provide radio communication support at a POD (Point of Distribution) site immediately following Hurricane Ike in 2008. ScopeThis report will cover radio communication preparation, operation and expectations of a … Read more

PSV-10910 WAYS TO OPTIMIZE YOUR EFFECTIVENESS IN PUBLIC SERVICE EVENTS Modified and added to by Earl PackBased on an article by Willam L. Continelli – AB2CA Adding to the article, you can obtain remote mounted antenna adapters for your HT so that you can put the HT on your belt or in your vest pocket, … Read more

PSV-108WHAT IS A “SHADOW” Modified and updated by Earl PackBased on an article by John Galvin – N5TIM A shadow is an Amateur Radio Operator who accompanies an official or important person during an event. A shadow operator may be on-foot, mobile, or both during their assignment. CONCEPT:• The purpose of the shadow operator is … Read more