Paul Smith

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. Generators … 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 Make sure your radio is in top operating condition. Small problems such as loose antenna connections, bad microphones, intermittent operation, etc. may be just annoying during casual operation but … 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

PSV-107PUBLIC SERVICE EVENTS Modified from a Waller County ARES training articleWritten by Christine Smith, N5CAS (sk) Emcomm groups frequently use public service events as training for emergency communication. Public service events, such as walk and bike-a-thons, road races, marathons and parades have a great deal in common with emergency communication but a few differences as … Read more

WEA-114Winter Weather Definitions The National Weather Service issues many different types of watches and warnings during the winter months.Here is what they mean: Winter Weather Watch – A winter storm watch is issued when winter storm conditions are possible within the next 12 to 36 hours, but the timing, intensity, or occurrence may still be … Read more