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Emergency communications requires many things.  We not only need equipment that operates properly and training on how to pass traffic efficiently but we also need to establish effective relationships with those whom we serve.  Many of our volunteers have gone out of their way to promote meaningful emergency communications.  Joe Koester, W4NSA, recognized the need to add a wide coverage repeater in our area to serve not only a greater portion of Cumberland County but to be able to reach into adjacent counties as well.  Cliff Segar, KD4GT, has had extensive experience serving as a responder during many large scale emergencies.  He saw a need to promote the Emergency Communications function of Amateur Radio.

Joe fulfilled his goal by obtaining, modifying and installing the 146.895 repeater.  Cliff fulfilled one of his goals by working with the ARRL to install a large banner on a billboard located on his property (westbound I-40 near the eastern part of Cumberland County).  Rather than just posting a standard banner Joe and Cliff teamed together to make the billboard far more meaningful to fellow HAMS as well as the general public.

A decision was made to include two repeater frequencies on the billboard.  Joe's repeater in Cumberland County would be used by west bound traffic and the Cliff's repeater in Roane County would be used by eastbound traffic.  The net result was the billboard shown below.  It is the only one of its kind and a great start toward promoting one of the most important aspects of Amateur Radio - and that is Emergency Response.  Many thanks to Joe and Cliff for their cooperative effort!!

"SET"

Many volunteers participated in the recent ARRL Simulated Emergency Exercise.  The spirit of cooperation was at its finest as the Red Cross, TNECA and MARS volunteers worked together during the event.  The exercise simulated torrential rains throughout TN following two major hurricanes which wiped out all power, Internet and phone services.  Emergency workers were deployed to several locations.  Messages were passed to the State EOC in Nashville using our high speed radio e-mail communications systems.  The State EOC was staffed for the event and replied to all messages in a timely and thorough manner.  Inter-operability was the "name of the game" and was clearly demonstrated throughout the exercise.  Many thanks to TEMA, TNECA, Red Cross and MARS members who participated!  It was an excellent opportunity to work with some of our served agencies!

TNECA and RC-DEC Unite in Commitment to Serve

A Mutual Support Agreement (MSA) was signed, sealed and delivered between TNECA and the Roane County Division of Emergency Communications.  The two organizations, recognizing a common mission and strong commitment to provide Emergency Communication Service to Public Service Agencies, has established a formal agreement to support each other.  Joint Training Sessions, Emergency Exercises, Technical Support and Planning have already begun and represent the four cornerstones of the agreement.  Similar agreements have been signed with other organizations and more are underway.

Bill - KI4FZT Signing the MSA

John - W9THI Signing the MSA

Delivered with a "Handshake"

United We Stand

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Work on the Emergency Communications Center

One of our recent "projects" was the installation of a new awning on our Emergency Communications Center.  Several people volunteered to assist Bill Dodson, owner of Creston RV, who contributed most of the materials as well as his skilled services.  Many thanks to Bill as well as everyone who helped.  We volunteered to assist Bill when he needs some extra hands around his home or shop (www.WhdCustomRV.com)

Bill Dodson installing the last bracket for the new awning

New awning completely installed and ready for service

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To be USEFUL, we MUST be READY.
To be READY, we MUST be TRAINED.
To be TRAINED, we MUST plan AHEAD.

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