FYI :Mike Corey sent this message in Word Doc form to the SM list earlier today. I wanted to share it with ODV: ARRL Headquarters Field Support for Major Incidents Most situations that call for Amateur Radio emergency communication support can be handled at the local level. We regularly see this with severe weather, 911 outages, and other localized events. These are the events that are addressed through local emergency plans. Then there are times when enhanced support is needed from outside the local level, this is where section resources enter the picture. These are covered in Section emergency plans. Finally, there are major incidents that demand more than local, section, and possibly division resources can handle. It is during events such as these that ARRL headquarters may be fully involved in supporting the Field Organization through the activation of the ARRL Headquarters Emergency Response Team (HQ-ERT). But how might ARRL HQ support the Field Organization during major events? - Resources - Through our contacts, HQ can help locate additional resources, either personnel or equipment that are needed in the response effort. - Conference calls - Planning sessions may be needed by Field Organization volunteers at the local, section, or division level. The ARRL can help by setting up conference calls so planners can talk directly with one another. - PR & Media - HQ can help with any public and media relations issues that may come up as well as provide background information to the press and public. HQ also relays national media inquiries to local contacts when appropriate. - Regulatory Service - Occasionally during major events, questions come up regarding regulatory matters (Part 97). HQ provides advice and guidance on such issues. - Interface with National Partners - When a special line of communication needs to be opened up with a served agency at the national level (i.e. Red Cross, FEMA, National Weather Service, etc.), the ARRL maintains relationships with served agencies at national levels to support activity within the Field Organization. During a major event Section Managers and Section Emergency Coordinators can submit requests for assistance or situation reports to hqert@arrl.org . This email address is for use only during large scale emergencies by Section/Division leadership. Any general questions can be directed to the Emergency Preparedness and Response Manager, Mike Corey, W5MPC, w5mpc@arrl.org or 860-594-0222 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------- The following was also sent to the SM list: In regards to the email sent out earlier about major incidents and ARRL HQ response I want to clarify some important points about contact information. hqert@arrl.org - This email is to only be used during a large scale event when directed to do so. It is used when the ERT at HQ is activated. emergency@arrl.org - It is used for general inquiries about emergency communications. If you are submitting situation reports or correspondence regarding an emcommn event please send it directly to myself and/or Steve Ewald. Thanks and sorry for the confusion. Mike Harold Kramer, WJ1B Chief Operating Officer ARRL -the national association for Amateur Radio 225 Main Street Newington, CT 06111 (860) 594 -0220