Emerald Amateur Radio Society

In 2000, EARS entered into a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) with the City of Springfield to provide emergency communications using the Amateur Radio Service to supplement overloaded or out of action communications facilities and/or to add to the communications facilities in operation. This MOU was renewed in 2005. During times of emergency, EARS operates under the auspices of Springfield´s Emergency Management structure. Springfield´s Fire & Life Safety Department makes their facilities at City Hall available for the EARS to maintain its Amateur Radio station WA7FQD and at Fire Station #3 for EARS´s Amateur Radio Station W7SFD. Additional facilities are provided by the Springfield Police Department for additional radio communication activities, as needed.

What are the expectations of EARS members who volunteer to work in the area of Emergency Communications? After assuring that their own families and property are safe and secure, EARS EmComm members will respond under the organization´s Emergency Operations Plan. Prospective members may be required to undergo a background check to enable them to work in secure areas.

In addition to an Amateur Radio license, the basic equipment needed for Emergency Services is a handheld transceiver (with plenty of batteries), and a willingness and commitment to learn proper procedure. Additional equipment can range from a mobile radio to a very-well equipped home station or RV.

EARS has a monthly training session for emergency communications. At these meetings, individuals will be trained in the proper usage of radio equipment, operating procedures, and message forms used in Emergency Operations Centers. In addition to classroom settings, Simulated Emergency Training (SET) drills and community service operations will be used to enhance the operating skills and experience of the EmComm members.

For additional information concerning EARS Emergency Communications service and training, please e-mail: info@emerald-ars.us with the subject "Emergency Communications".