PSV-103 What Is A “Rest Stop/Aid Station

by

PSV-103
WHAT is a “Rest Stop/
Aid Station Communicator?”



A rest stop or aid station communicator is an Amateur Radio Operator who provides on-site staff communication during an event.

CONCEPT:
A rest stop or aid station communicator provides constant contact between net control and the local rest stop or aid station official. Thus the amateur operator MUST remain in the immediate vicinity of the rest stop or aid station AT ALL TIMES. If you go to the restroom, notify the manager and net control.

Because the rest stop/aid station is usually a central location, providing participants with supplies and or first aid, the communicator needs to always remain in contact with the site leader and be cognizant of site operations and especially of any incidents/emergencies without interfering with normal operation.

Quite often communications involve priority/emergency medical situations and lost youth. Example: For the MS150 additional medical personnel and supplies can be obtained via amateur radio and it is typical for children and parents to become separated at the annual Wings Over Houston Airshow.

PURPOSE:
The purpose of working special events is to exercise away-kit equipment in simulated emergency situations where connectivity might be challenging and to practice concise and accurate message handling in such environments. In addition to normal communications experience, these events provide opportunities for ARES members to work as net control operators in non-emergency but low stress situations to help prepare them for away-team duties. ARES members are encouraged to participate in at least one Special Event a year per our Taskbooks.

Responsibilities/Duties:

  1. The communicator must remain within the vicinity of the rest station/aid station at all times. In addition, the amateur must monitor the radio AT ALL TIMES. If communicator must step away from their radio and a substitute is not available, then notify net control when you leave and when you return.
  2. The communicator is expected to take direction from the event communications net control during his/her shift.
  3. The rest stop/aid station communicator may operate other radios as well, such as an event-furnished radio and cellular telephone.
  4. Build and maintain a good relationship with the Rest Stop manager.
  5. Make sure you are readily available to pass communications as needed.
  6. It is recommended that the communicator also make contact with and build a relationship with the lead medical personnel. Being located very near the medical tent is an advantage. When situations arise this will be the gathering point for the rest stop manager and lead medical. Medical typically has their own communication systems but a backup through amateur radio is greatly appreciated. The medical personnel also appreciate the radio operator taking care of the communications needs while they attend to the medical needs.
  7. Shift Duration. Most event operators have durations of 12 hours or less. This time may vary depending on the actual needs of the operation.
  8. The communicator shall be in good physical condition and should be self sufficient for the duration of the event.
  9. The rest stop/aid stations are usually located some distance from net control. These locations do not always provide shelter from the elements and may require the communicator to use his/her ingenuity in functioning from this type of location.

Radio Equipment Requirements:
The communicator should possess the following equipment when reporting for duty:

  1. 2 meter FM Transceiver capable of at least 25 watts into the antenna. This set-up can be a mobile unit or a handy-talkie plus amplifier combination.
  2. Gain antenna with magnetic mount and 15 feet of cable to PL259 connector or push-up or section assembled 15 to 20 foot mast antenna and cable.
  3. External speaker.
  4. Optional: Packet TNC with a phone/tablet/laptop interface for digital messaging.
  5. Battery/batteries capable of at least 12 hours of operation preferably with Anderson Power Pole connectors for compatibility.
  6. Optional 2 meter/440 MHz dual band transceiver with cross-band repeat features controlled by a handy-talkie to allow the communicator to move about the site or to work at a distance from a base station. The HT should have…
    1. A high gain antenna.
    2. A spare HT battery and battery charger.
    3. An earphone or headset attachment.
    4. A cigarette lighter adapter or auto battery adapter power cables.

That concludes tonight’s training. Are there any questions, comments or suggested additions to this material?

Thanks, this is (callsign) clear to net control.




Send corrections, modifications, updates or suggestions to k5prs@aol.com