1986 RACES Bulletins
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 1
SUBJECT: ANTENNA SAFETY Use extreme care when raising or elevating antennas for the first time. Be sure you can see any overhead or nearby power lines that are within the fall radius of your structure. Last month a television station technician raised his telescopic 40- foot mobile antenna into unseen overhead power lines. The resulting short circuit threw him clear and set his van on fire. He regained consciousness, attempted to get the fire extinguisher from the burning van, and was electrocuted.
For W6NKR broadcast 06 Jan 86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 4
SUBJECT: DEFINITION OF RACES There are still some individuals confused with the definition and meaning of RACES---Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service. RACES simply means Amateur radio operators who provide emergency communications for a State or local government. No more, no less. RACES is not a separate or detached function, activity or a club. RACES enables Amateur radio communications for all elements of a State or a local government and cannot ever be dedicated to serving only one department of any given government.
There appears to be some misunderstanding among individual Amateurs in large metropolitan areas about RACES. The definition above should erase misunderstandings but not perhaps past history. State OES welcomes the opportunity to meet with Amateur groups anywhere in the state on the subject of utilizing Amateurs for emergency government communications.
For W6NKR broadcast on Monday, 3 February 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 5
SUBJECT: WEEKLY STATE RACES NET EVERY MONDAY, EXCEPT HOLIDAYS, THIS OFFICE BROADCASTS A MESSAGE TO ALL CALIFORNIA AMATEURS. THIS ORIGINATED MANY YEARS AGO AS THE CCDN---THE CALIFORNIA CIVIL DEFENSE NET. THESE WEEKLY BROADCASTS BY W6NKR ARE IN THE FORM OF NUMBERED STATE RACES BULLETINS. THE FIRST MESSAGE IN 1986 IS 86-1 AND SO FORTH.
PUBLIC SERVICE IS THE CORNERSTONE OF THE AMATEUR RADIO FOUNDATION AND TRADITION. FOR THIS REASON WE REQUEST THAT THESE WEEKLY BROADCASTS BE RECEIVED AND RETRANSMITTED OVER YOUR OWN LOCAL SCHEDULED NETS. THEY NEED NOT BE DICTATED VERBATIM UNLESS IT HELPS IN TRAINING TO HANDLE FORMAL TRAFFIC. WE DO APPRECIATE HAVING THEM READ OVER YOUR NETS SIMILAR TO ARRL BULLETINS, ET CETERA.
WE SOMETIMES DISPOSE OF SERVICEABLE EQUIPMENT WITH THE WEEKLY STATE RACES BULLETIN BEING THE ONLY ANNOUNCEMENT. DISPOSAL IS THEN DONE ON A FIRST COME FIRST SERVED BASIS. WE GAVE AWAY MANY LIKE-NEW RADIOS AND HUNDREDS OF TUBES IN 1985 TO AMATEURS WHO LISTEN TO THESE BULLETINS.
THE BROADCASTS ARE AT 7 PM ON 3545.5 KHZ WITH 15 WPM CW AND AGAIN AT 7:30 PM WITH 60 AND 100 WPM RATT. THEY ARE ALSO BEING ENTERED INTO PACKET MAILBOXES UNDER "RACES". MAILBOX RACES BULLETINS APPEAR IN WA6NWE SACRAMENTO 145.09, WD6CUS-1 RICHMOND 145.09, AND WA6OSA-2 145.01 FRESNO. MORE WILL BE ADDED AS WE ARE ADVISED BY YOU WHO, WHERE, AND ROUTING TO-FROM SACRAMENTO.
YOUR REPLIES, COMMENTS, INPUTS AND QUESTIONS ARE WELCOMED. 2.10.86:0800
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 6
SUBJECT: USES FOR RACES - PART ONE RACES is communications supporting a local government provided by Radio Amateurs. Many have interpreted that there can be no use for RACES unless there is a major disaster or war. For that reason RACES withered and died in many areas because they had no disasters and no war. RACES survived and is being re- established in those areas where RACES is interpreted and utilized to support virtually any emergency with as little as one RACES operator. In other words, the use of RACES is not limited to a major event that requires the mobilization of all RACES or civil defense resources. A weekly series of messages will follow that discuss the many ways in which Amateurs may increase their participation and readiness in the vital area of emergency government communications. One old saying goes "It is not WHAT you know, it is WHO you know." This goes for RACES and ARES as well. Interpersonal communications between the on-scene disaster or emergency participants can be as important as the actual telecommunications. Volunteers unfamiliar with the players and how they play their government game can be a hindrance and often a hazard. For these reasons the services of volunteers must often be declined unless they have received the necessary and required orientation and training. The same holds true for us Radio Amateurs. A few hours of orientation and a meetings with government now and then, plus some field activities, can make all the difference of how much value an individual RACES and ARES member can be.
(02/24/86)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 7
SUBJECT: USES FOR RACES - PART TWO The RACES is communications supporting local government provided by Radio Amateurs.
There are innovative ways of employing RACES today that were not dreamed of when RACES was first created by the FCC and DOD. They have come about through continuing dialogue between the Amateurs and their local government. This is usually done through the RACES radio officer and his/her staff. RACES or any Amateur Radio assistance to government cannot begin or be maintained without this ongoing liaison.
The next step is to preplan innovative ways those interested Amateurs can assist government emergency operations. This, in turn, improves emergency preparedness and successful emergency response. The innovative ways will vary from community to community. There is no one checklist for RACES mission support. That's because some communities are better equipped than others to tackle local emergencies. Sometimes the political climate limits the participation of volunteers in a local government's emergency response plans. There is no panacea for the latter except for steady, professional performance and constructive dialogue between Amateur radio leaders and their local government.
[To be continued in Bulletin 86-8]
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 8
SUBJECT: CRITIQUE The following is quoted from the Exercise After Action Report to the participants in Quake 85/Response 85 Exercise.
Quote: The favorable and professional response from radio amateurs during the exercise proved once again the merit of involving these people and organizations in emergency management operations at all levels. However, to be totally effective when employed, they must be integrated into training sessions in order that they will understand the total operation and be able to detect problems or inadequate/improper information. This fact was pointed out by the number of times the Senior Controller was required to decipher radio transmitted messages. End quote.
RACES operators receive such training from their OES and underscores the need for both training and participation.
For State RACES Station W6NKR statewide broadcast 17 Mar 86. seh
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 9
SUBJECT: FLOODS Amateur radio distinguished itself during the February flood emergencies in Northern California. Several counties, State OES Region 2, and State OES headquarters used RACES for voice, packet and ATV communications. At one time it provided us the only communications with Napa County when phone lines were lost. On another day State RACES personnel piloted their own plane and provided us ATV pictures from Freeport north to Yuba City. Many Amateurs with ARES supported the far flung mission of the American Red Cross. No matter where you served--on the levees, in the shelters, in the air, on the air, on the water, or behind the scenes--you have our sincere thanks and appreciation. The true spirit of unselfish volunteerism by you professionals in Amateur radio is an invaluable resource to your community.
Signed WILLIAM M. MEDIGOVICH, DIRECTOR
Governor's Office of Emergency Services
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 9X 241818 MAR 86
SUBJECT: FLOODS 1. As reported last week, Amateur Radio played an active role during the recent floods. Although it was not necessary to activate the CCDN for HF communication links, VHF played a very important part in local emergency situations. Packet radio links were used extensively between OES Headquarters and the American Red Cross and, to a limited degree, some of the OES Regional offices. Local RACES groups were active in providing communication links to evacuee shelters, in addition to serving in levee watch teams and providing other emergency communications. Indeed, a job well done!
Sgd MARION HENSON, W6NKR
Chief State RACES Radio Officer
2. Applications for the State OES Headquarters RACES staff are still coming in. There was increased interest during and after the recent flood emergency. I will compile these after the April 18 earthquake exercise and call a get together here at OES HQ so we may all become acquainted. The exercise, incidentally, is National Guard test in Southern California and will not involve any Amateur Radio circuits to Sacramento at this time. Thanks to W6NKR for writing this week's message.
Sgd STANLY E. HARTER, KH6GBX
California State RACES Coordinator
(3/24/86)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 10
SUBJECT: CB LINEAR CRACKDOWN THE FCC IS REQUESTING ASSISTANCE TO BRING A HALT TO THE ILLEGAL SALE AND USE OF LINEAR AMPLIFIERS BY CITIZENS BAND OPERATORS TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF INCIDENTS OF INTERFERENCE TO HOME ELECTRONIC ENTERTAINMENT EQUIPMENT. YOUR ASSISTANCE IS NEEDED TO ENSURE THE SUCCESS OF THIS PROJECT. THE FCC WILL CONCENTRATE ON STRICTLY ENFORCING RULES REGARDING THE MARKETING AND USE OF LINEARS.
LAST SUMMER THE FCC CONDUCTED A STUDY OF CASES REPORTED TO LOCAL FCC OFFICES CONCERNING CB INTERFERENCE TO HOME ELECTRONIC ENTERTAINMENT EQUIPMENT. IT WAS FOUND THAT 57% OF THOSE CASES COULD BE ATTRIBUTED TO OVERPOWERED CB STATIONS AND 91% INVOLVED LINEAR AMPLIFIERS.
ALL FCC OFFICES WILL TAKE AN ACTIVE INTEREST IN LOCATING AND CLOSING DOWN STATIONS USING LINEAR AMPLIFIERS AND OTHER ILLEGAL TRANSMITTERS. FIELD PERSONNEL WILL ATTEMPT TO DETERMINE THE SOURCE OF ANY LINEARS FOUND DURING THE INSPECTIONS IN ORDER TO LOCATE MAJOR MANUFACTURERS AND DISTRIBUTORS. THESE VIOLATORS WILL BE TARGETED FOR FINES AND CRIMINAL PROSECUTION, IF NECESSARY. A RELATED ACTIVITY WILL BE RIGOROUS ENFORCEMENT OF FCC REGULATIONS UPON UNSCRUPULOUS DEALERS AND SERVICE TECHNICIANS WHO MODIFY OR REPAIR MODIFIED EQUIPMENT.
ANYONE WHO HAS INFORMATION CONCERNING THE ILLEGAL MANUFACTURE, MARKETING OR USE OF CB LINEAR AMPLIFIERS IS ENCOURAGED TO TELEPHONE THE NEAREST FCC FIELD OFFICE. FCC REQUESTS WIDEST DISTRIBUTION OF THIS MARCH 10, 1986 LONG BEACH FCC BULLETIN.
[For W6NKR broadcast 31 March 1986 statewide. SEH 240900 MAR86]
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 11
SUBJECT: KERN COUNTY RACES MEETING On March 28, Kern County Emergency Services Coordinator Ron Adkins hosted a four hour RACES seminar for 32 ARES Amateurs. State OES Region 5 manager Nels Rasmussen from Fresno explained the OES role. KH6GBX, State RACES coordinator, explained the role and relationship between local government and the Amateurs with examples of day-to-day and emergency activities. Kern County's first 29 RACES members were signed up at the meeting and county ID cards are now being processed. County communications superintendent Carl Park emphasized the need for RACES to support their many needs in an 8000 square mile county. Representatives from the National Weather Service, Bakersfield Police Department and other agencies also attended. The next RACES briefing is scheduled in Placerville on April 16.
(TOD 4/4/86)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 13
SUBJECT: WHO ACTIVATES RACES? This question was raised by more than a few people following the February flood disaster. There was a common misconception that the State must declare a disaster and/or the State activates RACES. This is an error. Any local government--State, city or county--can activate its RACES personnel. This is usually done by the Radio Officer and others of any particular government's OES office.
We encourage governments to activate a skeleton RACES staff in a building emergency such as a flood, rather than after it is either too late to mobilize them or the potential resource has gone elsewhere.
Government communications seldom fails gracefully. If and when it does it is usually catastrophic. Then it is too late to mobilize the RACES resources in a timely and effective manner.
The Radio Officer is a key staff position on any OES staff. RACES cannot function properly without one. Does your county have a RACES Radio Officer?
4/21/86
INFORMAL DISCUSSION: It is axiomatic that where a government does not have a Radio Officer there is no viable RACES program, plan, operations, activities, training, etc. Counties needing assistance or guidance in this area are urged to contact your State OES Mutual Aid Region Manager or Communications Coordinator, or call the State RACES Coordinator at (916)427-4281 for more information. 73, Stan
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 14
SUBJECT: ONE HOUR EXERCISE QUESTION A frequently asked question is "How can we do a long exercise when the RACES regulations limit them to one hour a week?"
The answer is by not calling it a RACES exercise on the air. There is no time limit to Amateur radio exercises other than strictly RACES. The definition of RACES is emergency communications for a specific local government jurisdiction by its assigned Amateur radio operators.
4/28/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 15
SUBJECT: EL DORADO COUNTY An organizational meeting was held in Placerville in April between interested Amateurs and the County and State OES. About 24 hams attended and all enrolled in El Dorado County RACES. ATV was demonstrated yesterday to Amateurs and government officials at the Placerville airport. Thanks to all who made it a success.
5/5/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 16
SUBJECT: Portable Repeaters Question raised at a recent RACES seminar was "Is it advisable to develop portable repeaters?"
The answer is "Of course!" Transportable repeaters can be used to replace damaged repeaters or, more frequently, used to augment existing repeaters by filling in back country or remote areas not now served by repeaters. Particularly to support hand- held radios. High power is not important in transportable repeaters. Even two to five watts power output is adequate. The cavities required to separate the receive and transmit frequencies are usually the most expensive item.
5/12/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 17
SUBJECT: RADIO OFFICERS Every RACES radio officer in every jurisdiction should have at least two alternates. There are several reasons for this.
5/19/86
NOTE: THERE WILL BE NO STATE RACES BROADCAST NEXT MONDAY MEMORIAL DAY. BUCKLE UP AND HAVE A SAFE AND ENJOYABLE WEEKEND.
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 18
SUBJECT: FAMILY CARE A question was raised at a RACES seminar. If we are called out on an emergency should we take care of our family first? The answer to this is "Yes". It is always assumed that family and job requirements will come before volunteer service. We are all well advised, however, to preplan with our families so that they may take care of themselves without us if and when necessary.
(6/2/86)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 19
SUBJECT: HF RADIO IS VERY IMPORTANT Because so much VHF-FM is used so much in the RACES some may get the impression that that is all there is to the RACES. It is true that most emergency communications needs at the city and county level are met by VHF and UHF bands and that HF is reserved for intermediate distance State OES RACES use. But there are local incidents where HF can and should be used. The 1985 central coast forest fires, for example, required the use of 80 meters to get out of deep canyons where all other radios failed.
The overall capability for HF mobile RACES operation has diminished substantially over the past two decades. This is a serious matter in any large or mountainous county. Does your RACES have at least one HF mobile that can readily be put into the field? Does its antenna have good high angle radiation characteristics desired for typical intermediate distances?
The 1986 fire season is already here. Field Day is around the corner. Are you ready?
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR 6/9/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 20
SUBJECT: YES, NON-HAMS CAN JOIN TOO! Amateurs providing communications for the State or any local government in California must be enrolled as Disaster Service Workers in the "Communications" classification. Most of you know that, but how many know that you don't have to he a ham to be so enrolled? That's right. If your spouse, family members or friends have the interest and skills to serve they, too, can be registered.
For example, some local governments have pilots who are not hams but are enrolled to assist communications and the RACES. Other volunteer skills might include clerks, messengers, technicians, and even unlicensed operators who can operate under the supervision of a licensed operator. Any potential volunteer or government agency having questions should write or call us at 916-427-4281. You can make emergency services a family affair!
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR 6-16-86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 21
SUBJECT: EARTHQUAKE ALARMS - 1/2 A consortium of major Japanese electronics manufacturers has just started to market a new device designed to give advance warning of earthquakes, tidal waves and other natural disasters. The emergency system that can be bought separately or will be available as an option in the latest TV receivers ranges from the equivalent of $30 to $100, depending on whether it is bought as a separate unit or incorporated into a TV set. The separate unit, which also has a digital clock and a multi-channel radio set, is the more expensive. The emergency warning system is the result of several years of research on emergency signal wave transmissions by the Japanese government and several electronics companies.
(End of part 1 of 2 parts. Thanks to the STOCKTON RACES RESPONDER.)
For W6NKR broadcast on 06/23/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 22
SUBJECT: EARTHQUAKE ALARMS - 2/2 (Part 2 of 2. Thanks to the "STOCKTON RACES RESPONDER").
When required, a built-in audio warning device will be triggered automatically by microwave signals transmitted by Japan's National Radio System. In some cases the signals could give as much as an hour's warning, in others there might be little if any warning. A nationwide earthquake prediction system, using state- of-the-art components and communications channels, is already in place. Some versions of the device will be incorporated into television or radio sets and will automatically turn the sets on to the emergency frequency which broadcasts information and instructions. The device will also be available as a separate component that sounds a buzzer alarm upon receiving the microwave signal. The emergency alarm is being produced by several of the electronics giants, including Sony and Matsushita.
For Statewide broadcast by W6NKR on 06/30/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 23
SUBJECT: RUBBER DUCK ANTENNAS - PART 1 Rubber duck antennas on hand-held radios are a severe compromise on efficiency. On the plus side is their short size and flexible forgiveness to brutish handling. On the negative side is their terrible radiation inefficiency, probably worse than many of you expected. When did you last replace your helical spring antenna we call the rubber duck? On testing a hundred or so portable radios that had been out on the fire lines for a few weeks we found a typical 60 percent failure rate. Most of the antennas looked fine. The only way you can detect an invisible rubber duck failure is by measuring the microvolts per meter with a calibrated receiver over a measured range under controlled conditions, such as done routinely by the Boise Interagency Fire Center. Since this is difficult for most to do, it might not be a bad idea to replace rubber ducks as a matter or course when they show signs of wear or if they are a year old. You might want to consider using a telescopic antenna under non- violent conditions to vastly improve the range of your hand-held. The National Bureau of Standards ran some tests that proved what we had long suspected. Part 2 of this message will bring you the bad news as it applies to Amateur 2-Meters and Public Safety VHF High Band portable radio antennas. It will be presented in both technical and lay language.
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on July 7, 1986
SUBJECT: ANTENNA SAFETY Use extreme care when raising or elevating antennas for the first time. Be sure you can see any overhead or nearby power lines that are within the fall radius of your structure. Last month a television station technician raised his telescopic 40- foot mobile antenna into unseen overhead power lines. The resulting short circuit threw him clear and set his van on fire. He regained consciousness, attempted to get the fire extinguisher from the burning van, and was electrocuted.
For W6NKR broadcast 06 Jan 86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 4
SUBJECT: DEFINITION OF RACES There are still some individuals confused with the definition and meaning of RACES---Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service. RACES simply means Amateur radio operators who provide emergency communications for a State or local government. No more, no less. RACES is not a separate or detached function, activity or a club. RACES enables Amateur radio communications for all elements of a State or a local government and cannot ever be dedicated to serving only one department of any given government.
There appears to be some misunderstanding among individual Amateurs in large metropolitan areas about RACES. The definition above should erase misunderstandings but not perhaps past history. State OES welcomes the opportunity to meet with Amateur groups anywhere in the state on the subject of utilizing Amateurs for emergency government communications.
For W6NKR broadcast on Monday, 3 February 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 5
SUBJECT: WEEKLY STATE RACES NET EVERY MONDAY, EXCEPT HOLIDAYS, THIS OFFICE BROADCASTS A MESSAGE TO ALL CALIFORNIA AMATEURS. THIS ORIGINATED MANY YEARS AGO AS THE CCDN---THE CALIFORNIA CIVIL DEFENSE NET. THESE WEEKLY BROADCASTS BY W6NKR ARE IN THE FORM OF NUMBERED STATE RACES BULLETINS. THE FIRST MESSAGE IN 1986 IS 86-1 AND SO FORTH.
PUBLIC SERVICE IS THE CORNERSTONE OF THE AMATEUR RADIO FOUNDATION AND TRADITION. FOR THIS REASON WE REQUEST THAT THESE WEEKLY BROADCASTS BE RECEIVED AND RETRANSMITTED OVER YOUR OWN LOCAL SCHEDULED NETS. THEY NEED NOT BE DICTATED VERBATIM UNLESS IT HELPS IN TRAINING TO HANDLE FORMAL TRAFFIC. WE DO APPRECIATE HAVING THEM READ OVER YOUR NETS SIMILAR TO ARRL BULLETINS, ET CETERA.
WE SOMETIMES DISPOSE OF SERVICEABLE EQUIPMENT WITH THE WEEKLY STATE RACES BULLETIN BEING THE ONLY ANNOUNCEMENT. DISPOSAL IS THEN DONE ON A FIRST COME FIRST SERVED BASIS. WE GAVE AWAY MANY LIKE-NEW RADIOS AND HUNDREDS OF TUBES IN 1985 TO AMATEURS WHO LISTEN TO THESE BULLETINS.
THE BROADCASTS ARE AT 7 PM ON 3545.5 KHZ WITH 15 WPM CW AND AGAIN AT 7:30 PM WITH 60 AND 100 WPM RATT. THEY ARE ALSO BEING ENTERED INTO PACKET MAILBOXES UNDER "RACES". MAILBOX RACES BULLETINS APPEAR IN WA6NWE SACRAMENTO 145.09, WD6CUS-1 RICHMOND 145.09, AND WA6OSA-2 145.01 FRESNO. MORE WILL BE ADDED AS WE ARE ADVISED BY YOU WHO, WHERE, AND ROUTING TO-FROM SACRAMENTO.
YOUR REPLIES, COMMENTS, INPUTS AND QUESTIONS ARE WELCOMED. 2.10.86:0800
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 6
SUBJECT: USES FOR RACES - PART ONE RACES is communications supporting a local government provided by Radio Amateurs. Many have interpreted that there can be no use for RACES unless there is a major disaster or war. For that reason RACES withered and died in many areas because they had no disasters and no war. RACES survived and is being re- established in those areas where RACES is interpreted and utilized to support virtually any emergency with as little as one RACES operator. In other words, the use of RACES is not limited to a major event that requires the mobilization of all RACES or civil defense resources. A weekly series of messages will follow that discuss the many ways in which Amateurs may increase their participation and readiness in the vital area of emergency government communications. One old saying goes "It is not WHAT you know, it is WHO you know." This goes for RACES and ARES as well. Interpersonal communications between the on-scene disaster or emergency participants can be as important as the actual telecommunications. Volunteers unfamiliar with the players and how they play their government game can be a hindrance and often a hazard. For these reasons the services of volunteers must often be declined unless they have received the necessary and required orientation and training. The same holds true for us Radio Amateurs. A few hours of orientation and a meetings with government now and then, plus some field activities, can make all the difference of how much value an individual RACES and ARES member can be.
(02/24/86)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 7
SUBJECT: USES FOR RACES - PART TWO The RACES is communications supporting local government provided by Radio Amateurs.
There are innovative ways of employing RACES today that were not dreamed of when RACES was first created by the FCC and DOD. They have come about through continuing dialogue between the Amateurs and their local government. This is usually done through the RACES radio officer and his/her staff. RACES or any Amateur Radio assistance to government cannot begin or be maintained without this ongoing liaison.
The next step is to preplan innovative ways those interested Amateurs can assist government emergency operations. This, in turn, improves emergency preparedness and successful emergency response. The innovative ways will vary from community to community. There is no one checklist for RACES mission support. That's because some communities are better equipped than others to tackle local emergencies. Sometimes the political climate limits the participation of volunteers in a local government's emergency response plans. There is no panacea for the latter except for steady, professional performance and constructive dialogue between Amateur radio leaders and their local government.
[To be continued in Bulletin 86-8]
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 8
SUBJECT: CRITIQUE The following is quoted from the Exercise After Action Report to the participants in Quake 85/Response 85 Exercise.
Quote: The favorable and professional response from radio amateurs during the exercise proved once again the merit of involving these people and organizations in emergency management operations at all levels. However, to be totally effective when employed, they must be integrated into training sessions in order that they will understand the total operation and be able to detect problems or inadequate/improper information. This fact was pointed out by the number of times the Senior Controller was required to decipher radio transmitted messages. End quote.
RACES operators receive such training from their OES and underscores the need for both training and participation.
For State RACES Station W6NKR statewide broadcast 17 Mar 86. seh
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 9
SUBJECT: FLOODS Amateur radio distinguished itself during the February flood emergencies in Northern California. Several counties, State OES Region 2, and State OES headquarters used RACES for voice, packet and ATV communications. At one time it provided us the only communications with Napa County when phone lines were lost. On another day State RACES personnel piloted their own plane and provided us ATV pictures from Freeport north to Yuba City. Many Amateurs with ARES supported the far flung mission of the American Red Cross. No matter where you served--on the levees, in the shelters, in the air, on the air, on the water, or behind the scenes--you have our sincere thanks and appreciation. The true spirit of unselfish volunteerism by you professionals in Amateur radio is an invaluable resource to your community.
Signed WILLIAM M. MEDIGOVICH, DIRECTOR
Governor's Office of Emergency Services
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 9X 241818 MAR 86
SUBJECT: FLOODS 1. As reported last week, Amateur Radio played an active role during the recent floods. Although it was not necessary to activate the CCDN for HF communication links, VHF played a very important part in local emergency situations. Packet radio links were used extensively between OES Headquarters and the American Red Cross and, to a limited degree, some of the OES Regional offices. Local RACES groups were active in providing communication links to evacuee shelters, in addition to serving in levee watch teams and providing other emergency communications. Indeed, a job well done!
Sgd MARION HENSON, W6NKR
Chief State RACES Radio Officer
2. Applications for the State OES Headquarters RACES staff are still coming in. There was increased interest during and after the recent flood emergency. I will compile these after the April 18 earthquake exercise and call a get together here at OES HQ so we may all become acquainted. The exercise, incidentally, is National Guard test in Southern California and will not involve any Amateur Radio circuits to Sacramento at this time. Thanks to W6NKR for writing this week's message.
Sgd STANLY E. HARTER, KH6GBX
California State RACES Coordinator
(3/24/86)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 10
SUBJECT: CB LINEAR CRACKDOWN THE FCC IS REQUESTING ASSISTANCE TO BRING A HALT TO THE ILLEGAL SALE AND USE OF LINEAR AMPLIFIERS BY CITIZENS BAND OPERATORS TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF INCIDENTS OF INTERFERENCE TO HOME ELECTRONIC ENTERTAINMENT EQUIPMENT. YOUR ASSISTANCE IS NEEDED TO ENSURE THE SUCCESS OF THIS PROJECT. THE FCC WILL CONCENTRATE ON STRICTLY ENFORCING RULES REGARDING THE MARKETING AND USE OF LINEARS.
LAST SUMMER THE FCC CONDUCTED A STUDY OF CASES REPORTED TO LOCAL FCC OFFICES CONCERNING CB INTERFERENCE TO HOME ELECTRONIC ENTERTAINMENT EQUIPMENT. IT WAS FOUND THAT 57% OF THOSE CASES COULD BE ATTRIBUTED TO OVERPOWERED CB STATIONS AND 91% INVOLVED LINEAR AMPLIFIERS.
ALL FCC OFFICES WILL TAKE AN ACTIVE INTEREST IN LOCATING AND CLOSING DOWN STATIONS USING LINEAR AMPLIFIERS AND OTHER ILLEGAL TRANSMITTERS. FIELD PERSONNEL WILL ATTEMPT TO DETERMINE THE SOURCE OF ANY LINEARS FOUND DURING THE INSPECTIONS IN ORDER TO LOCATE MAJOR MANUFACTURERS AND DISTRIBUTORS. THESE VIOLATORS WILL BE TARGETED FOR FINES AND CRIMINAL PROSECUTION, IF NECESSARY. A RELATED ACTIVITY WILL BE RIGOROUS ENFORCEMENT OF FCC REGULATIONS UPON UNSCRUPULOUS DEALERS AND SERVICE TECHNICIANS WHO MODIFY OR REPAIR MODIFIED EQUIPMENT.
ANYONE WHO HAS INFORMATION CONCERNING THE ILLEGAL MANUFACTURE, MARKETING OR USE OF CB LINEAR AMPLIFIERS IS ENCOURAGED TO TELEPHONE THE NEAREST FCC FIELD OFFICE. FCC REQUESTS WIDEST DISTRIBUTION OF THIS MARCH 10, 1986 LONG BEACH FCC BULLETIN.
[For W6NKR broadcast 31 March 1986 statewide. SEH 240900 MAR86]
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 11
SUBJECT: KERN COUNTY RACES MEETING On March 28, Kern County Emergency Services Coordinator Ron Adkins hosted a four hour RACES seminar for 32 ARES Amateurs. State OES Region 5 manager Nels Rasmussen from Fresno explained the OES role. KH6GBX, State RACES coordinator, explained the role and relationship between local government and the Amateurs with examples of day-to-day and emergency activities. Kern County's first 29 RACES members were signed up at the meeting and county ID cards are now being processed. County communications superintendent Carl Park emphasized the need for RACES to support their many needs in an 8000 square mile county. Representatives from the National Weather Service, Bakersfield Police Department and other agencies also attended. The next RACES briefing is scheduled in Placerville on April 16.
(TOD 4/4/86)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 13
SUBJECT: WHO ACTIVATES RACES? This question was raised by more than a few people following the February flood disaster. There was a common misconception that the State must declare a disaster and/or the State activates RACES. This is an error. Any local government--State, city or county--can activate its RACES personnel. This is usually done by the Radio Officer and others of any particular government's OES office.
We encourage governments to activate a skeleton RACES staff in a building emergency such as a flood, rather than after it is either too late to mobilize them or the potential resource has gone elsewhere.
Government communications seldom fails gracefully. If and when it does it is usually catastrophic. Then it is too late to mobilize the RACES resources in a timely and effective manner.
The Radio Officer is a key staff position on any OES staff. RACES cannot function properly without one. Does your county have a RACES Radio Officer?
4/21/86
INFORMAL DISCUSSION: It is axiomatic that where a government does not have a Radio Officer there is no viable RACES program, plan, operations, activities, training, etc. Counties needing assistance or guidance in this area are urged to contact your State OES Mutual Aid Region Manager or Communications Coordinator, or call the State RACES Coordinator at (916)427-4281 for more information. 73, Stan
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 14
SUBJECT: ONE HOUR EXERCISE QUESTION A frequently asked question is "How can we do a long exercise when the RACES regulations limit them to one hour a week?"
The answer is by not calling it a RACES exercise on the air. There is no time limit to Amateur radio exercises other than strictly RACES. The definition of RACES is emergency communications for a specific local government jurisdiction by its assigned Amateur radio operators.
4/28/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 15
SUBJECT: EL DORADO COUNTY An organizational meeting was held in Placerville in April between interested Amateurs and the County and State OES. About 24 hams attended and all enrolled in El Dorado County RACES. ATV was demonstrated yesterday to Amateurs and government officials at the Placerville airport. Thanks to all who made it a success.
5/5/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 16
SUBJECT: Portable Repeaters Question raised at a recent RACES seminar was "Is it advisable to develop portable repeaters?"
The answer is "Of course!" Transportable repeaters can be used to replace damaged repeaters or, more frequently, used to augment existing repeaters by filling in back country or remote areas not now served by repeaters. Particularly to support hand- held radios. High power is not important in transportable repeaters. Even two to five watts power output is adequate. The cavities required to separate the receive and transmit frequencies are usually the most expensive item.
5/12/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 17
SUBJECT: RADIO OFFICERS Every RACES radio officer in every jurisdiction should have at least two alternates. There are several reasons for this.
- A radio officer cannot perform satisfactorily around the clock.
- No individual should be indispensable.
- The alternate, or assistant, radio officers should be used in key staff positions responsible for such activities as training, operations, administration, records and so forth.
5/19/86
NOTE: THERE WILL BE NO STATE RACES BROADCAST NEXT MONDAY MEMORIAL DAY. BUCKLE UP AND HAVE A SAFE AND ENJOYABLE WEEKEND.
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 18
SUBJECT: FAMILY CARE A question was raised at a RACES seminar. If we are called out on an emergency should we take care of our family first? The answer to this is "Yes". It is always assumed that family and job requirements will come before volunteer service. We are all well advised, however, to preplan with our families so that they may take care of themselves without us if and when necessary.
(6/2/86)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 19
SUBJECT: HF RADIO IS VERY IMPORTANT Because so much VHF-FM is used so much in the RACES some may get the impression that that is all there is to the RACES. It is true that most emergency communications needs at the city and county level are met by VHF and UHF bands and that HF is reserved for intermediate distance State OES RACES use. But there are local incidents where HF can and should be used. The 1985 central coast forest fires, for example, required the use of 80 meters to get out of deep canyons where all other radios failed.
The overall capability for HF mobile RACES operation has diminished substantially over the past two decades. This is a serious matter in any large or mountainous county. Does your RACES have at least one HF mobile that can readily be put into the field? Does its antenna have good high angle radiation characteristics desired for typical intermediate distances?
The 1986 fire season is already here. Field Day is around the corner. Are you ready?
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR 6/9/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 20
SUBJECT: YES, NON-HAMS CAN JOIN TOO! Amateurs providing communications for the State or any local government in California must be enrolled as Disaster Service Workers in the "Communications" classification. Most of you know that, but how many know that you don't have to he a ham to be so enrolled? That's right. If your spouse, family members or friends have the interest and skills to serve they, too, can be registered.
For example, some local governments have pilots who are not hams but are enrolled to assist communications and the RACES. Other volunteer skills might include clerks, messengers, technicians, and even unlicensed operators who can operate under the supervision of a licensed operator. Any potential volunteer or government agency having questions should write or call us at 916-427-4281. You can make emergency services a family affair!
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR 6-16-86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 21
SUBJECT: EARTHQUAKE ALARMS - 1/2 A consortium of major Japanese electronics manufacturers has just started to market a new device designed to give advance warning of earthquakes, tidal waves and other natural disasters. The emergency system that can be bought separately or will be available as an option in the latest TV receivers ranges from the equivalent of $30 to $100, depending on whether it is bought as a separate unit or incorporated into a TV set. The separate unit, which also has a digital clock and a multi-channel radio set, is the more expensive. The emergency warning system is the result of several years of research on emergency signal wave transmissions by the Japanese government and several electronics companies.
(End of part 1 of 2 parts. Thanks to the STOCKTON RACES RESPONDER.)
For W6NKR broadcast on 06/23/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 22
SUBJECT: EARTHQUAKE ALARMS - 2/2 (Part 2 of 2. Thanks to the "STOCKTON RACES RESPONDER").
When required, a built-in audio warning device will be triggered automatically by microwave signals transmitted by Japan's National Radio System. In some cases the signals could give as much as an hour's warning, in others there might be little if any warning. A nationwide earthquake prediction system, using state- of-the-art components and communications channels, is already in place. Some versions of the device will be incorporated into television or radio sets and will automatically turn the sets on to the emergency frequency which broadcasts information and instructions. The device will also be available as a separate component that sounds a buzzer alarm upon receiving the microwave signal. The emergency alarm is being produced by several of the electronics giants, including Sony and Matsushita.
For Statewide broadcast by W6NKR on 06/30/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 23
SUBJECT: RUBBER DUCK ANTENNAS - PART 1 Rubber duck antennas on hand-held radios are a severe compromise on efficiency. On the plus side is their short size and flexible forgiveness to brutish handling. On the negative side is their terrible radiation inefficiency, probably worse than many of you expected. When did you last replace your helical spring antenna we call the rubber duck? On testing a hundred or so portable radios that had been out on the fire lines for a few weeks we found a typical 60 percent failure rate. Most of the antennas looked fine. The only way you can detect an invisible rubber duck failure is by measuring the microvolts per meter with a calibrated receiver over a measured range under controlled conditions, such as done routinely by the Boise Interagency Fire Center. Since this is difficult for most to do, it might not be a bad idea to replace rubber ducks as a matter or course when they show signs of wear or if they are a year old. You might want to consider using a telescopic antenna under non- violent conditions to vastly improve the range of your hand-held. The National Bureau of Standards ran some tests that proved what we had long suspected. Part 2 of this message will bring you the bad news as it applies to Amateur 2-Meters and Public Safety VHF High Band portable radio antennas. It will be presented in both technical and lay language.
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on July 7, 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 24
SUBJECT: RUBBER DUCK ANTENNAS - PART 2 The efficiency of a hand-held is dependent upon how much antenna it has and how good the ground plane. Most portables have very poor ground planes; the more metal the better. Also the more antenna the better. Hence the rubber duck is a woeful but often necessary compromise. But if a portable is not going to be subjected to the abuse of fireground or street cop utility, you should consider the telescopic quarter-wave antenna if range is important. Compare the figures and discussion that follows. Be aware that the telescopic antenna is nowhere as rugged as the rubber duck but it will talk circles around it. You might say that the quarter wave whip is to the rubber duck what a 106 inch CB quarter wave whip is to a 36 inch whip on a base loaded coil to compromise range for low garages. Our reference antenna in the Public Safety high band and 2-meter Amateur radio measurements below is a quarter-wave telescopic antenna, extended, and held at face level:
One-quarter wavelength extended and at face level = 0 dBOne-quarter wavelength collapsed and worn at belt level = -40dBRubber duck held at face level = -5dBRubber duck worn at belt level = -20dBTranslated, this means that a 5-watt hand-held with a rubber duck worn on the belt has an effective radiated power not of 5 watts but only .05 watt. Held at face level the radio has an ERP of 1.6 watt. 15dB is quite a difference!
(Concluded in Part 3)
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on July 14, 1986
cc: 'WORLD RADIO', "QST" Mike Riley (from this date forward)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 25
SUBJECT: RUBBER DUCKS - PART 3 of 3 In the previous two messages we gave you facts and figures of the quarter-wave telescopic versus the rubber duck for Public Safety VHF Highband and 2-Meter Amateur handhelds. The 40 dB down for the nested telescopic relates to those commercial models where the telescopic disappears within the radio. Such an antenna won't break when it's nested but it won't receive worth a whoop either. In those radios where the collapsed quarter wave is external to the radio they break very easily. For that reason we recommend the style that has a spring at the base. The spring makes it very forgiving of elbows and other bum raps. We have not researched or measured five-eighth wave antennas because they are too long for most public safety use and because they typically require too many telescopic sections. The more sections the more chance of troubles. Few people take the time to correctly telescope any hand-held antenna. They should never be whacked down with the palm of the hand on top and push. They should be pulled down with the thumb and first two fingers.
If you are interested in the figures for 450 MHz, using the table in the last message, they are respectively 0dB, 30dB, 5dB, and 30dB. One more reference for the technically inclined--the loss of a telescopic antenna compared to half-wave dipole: VHF -5dBd and UHF -20 dBd. Telescopic antennas should be changed at least annually and whenever they become the slightest bit loose. Any looseness can mean a poor RF connection inside the antenna where you can't see it or fix it. Simply change it.
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on July 21, 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 26
SUBJECT: BILL OF RIGHTS FOR VOLUNTEERS
- THE RIGHT TO BE TREATED AS A CO-WORKER--AND NOT JUST FREE HELP.
- THE RIGHT TO SUITABLE ASSIGNMENT.
- THE RIGHT TO KNOW AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION -- POLICY, PEOPLE AND PROGRAMS.
- THE RIGHT TO PARTICIPATE IN ACTIVITIES.
- THE RIGHT TO QUALITY TRAINING.
- THE RIGHT TO SOUND GUIDANCE AND DIRECTION.
- THE RIGHT TO PROPER WORKING CONDITIONS.
- THE RIGHT TO PROMOTION AND A VARIETY OF EXPERIENCES.
- THE RIGHT TO BE HEARD; TO HAVE A PART IN THE PLANNING.
- THE RIGHT TO RECOGNITION, THROUGH PROMOTION AND REWARD.
- THE RIGHT TO DAY-TO-DAY EXPRESSION OF APPRECIATION BY PROFESSIONALS.
(Broadcast by W6NKR on July 28, 1986)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 27
SUBJECT: RICHTER SCALE Earthquakes are measured and reported in the Richter Scale. It is a log scale. This means that a Richter 3 is 10 times greater than a Richter 2, and Richter 4 is 100 times as great as Richter 2.
Richter 3 can cause slight damage in the local area, 4 moderate damage, 5 considerable damage, 6 severe damage, 7 widespread heavy damage and is called a Major Earthquake, and 8 is a Great Earthquake capable of tremendous damage. Southern California is due for a Great Earthquake.
For W6NKR statewide broadcast 4 August 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 28
SUBJECT: RECENT NEWS
- EARTHQUAKES. Riverside County Amateurs were activated following their Richter 6 earthquake. RACES units accompanied damage assessment teams to provide communications. Mutual aid from adjoining counties was called for later in the week when not enough volunteers could be mustered during the workweek. About two dozen Amateurs volunteered to be placed on standby alert for possible dispatch following the numerous Chalfont Valley quakes as RACES strike teams with multi-mode capabilities.
- JULY REPORT. Napa County is the latest to enroll its ARES and CDF VIP personnel in RACES. State RACES Coordinator also met with San Diego County and San Bernardino County RACES and met with hams at the Northern California Mercury Amateur Radio Association near Merced.
- HOW FAR IS FAR? A ham at a recent meeting said he thought very few hams would ever leave their county on a RACES or ARES mission. Others disagreed. One side feels it goes with the territory and will respond if called upon to do so. The other side feels that it is stretching public service too far. This is obviously a subject matter that varies from person to person. How do you feel? It is suggested that all RACES Radio Officers and ARES EC's poll each of their members to learn the answers in advance of making out-of-area dispatch requests.
(W6NKR on 11 August 1986)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 29
SUBJECT: EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS LIST FOR HOME AND FAMILY
- Pre-disaster family plan.
- First aid kit.
- Food (i.e., canned or dehydrated foods, soup starters, peanut butter, puddings, etc.)
- Bottled water.
- Flashlight with extra batteries.
- Transistor radio with extra batteries.
- Non-electric can opener, crescent wrench, fire extinguisher, whistle, tissues, plastic spoons, paper cups.
- Special family needs.
- Pet needs.
- Secured heavy objects such as: water heaters, book cases, china cabinets, and the like.
(W6NKR on 18 August 1986)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 30
SUBJECT: PACKET EXPANDING
- There will be no CCDN Net next Monday, September 1, Labor Day. Have a safe and pleasant holiday.
- These RACES bulletins are now appearing in the following packet mailboxes under the RACES Directory: WA6NWE-1 Sacramento, W6CUS-1 Richmond, KA6M-1 Palo Alto, AA4RE-1 Gilroy, KE6BX Hollister, WD6BFC Redding, W6IXU Arroyo Grande, and WB6KQY Pomona. Work is continuing to expand the automatic forwarding into Southern California, the San Joaquin Valley and the north coast.
For statewide W6NKR broadcast August 25, 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 31
SUBJECT: ATV ANTENNA ON AIRCRAFT The antenna should be mounted half-way between the tail and the rear window, on the bottom of the fuselage, to minimize "shadows" in banks and turns. Select a whip antenna similar to that used for transponders and DME except that the whip will have to resonate at 434 Megahertz. An aircraft-type antenna made for aluminum skinned aircraft. It must have a coaxial fitting at the feedthrough base of the antenna and not the type that has a lug mount. Cut the radiator (whip) to seven (7") inches. Run the coaxial transmission line to the back seat with a BNC male termination.
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on September 8, 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 32
SUBJECT: EARTHQUAKES Since 1980, when four earthquakes registering 6 or more on the Richter scale occurred in the Eastern Sierra within two days, the area has been hit by one or more quakes with a magnitude of at least 5 each year.
Moreover, geologists have noted that since the mid-1970s the Earth's surface has lifted more than a foot in Long Valley, a depression near Bishop that was formed 700,000 years ago in a volcanic eruption that scientists believe was hundreds of times more powerful than the 1980 eruption of Oregon's Mt. St. Helens. The U.S. Geological Survey issued a warning in 1982 that a major volcanic eruption would be possible. They say that the most recent quakes may not be directly related to the previous volcanic activity because they were centered about 20 miles from the Long Valley caldera. But he warned that intensified activity would probably continue and predicted that quakes with a magnitude of 6 or more could be expected.
Amateur Radio operators in public service everywhere should self-analyze all the "What if?" questions that come to mind.
(For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on August 15, 1986)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 33
SUBJECT: RACES HISTORY - PART 1 OF 2 As far back as 1951 the California Office of Civil Defense felt the need for supplemental backup communications. The California Civil Defense Net (CCDN) was established by Ken Hughes, W6CIS, and Herb Bruer, W6JN. Participants were Amateur Radio operators employed by the California Department of Agriculture who gave their time on a voluntary basis. Other volunteer Amateurs were enrolled at selected locations. The word "Amateur" in Amateur Radio means only that an Amateur Radio operator cannot be paid for his services. It is the same difference as in amateur and pro in sports. Amateur radio is the only hobby that is regulated by international laws.
In May, 1951, New York State Radio Officer Vincent T. Kenny, W2BGO, spearheaded the establishment of the Northeastern United States Civil Defense Amateur Radio Alliance (USCDARA) in 1955. This group promoted the adoption of a Standard Operating Procedure, channelization of the RACES frequency allocations, uniform message forms, etc.
The Federal Communications Commission established the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) effective August 15, 1952, to meet the needs of the Federal Civil Defense Administration (FCDA), state and local governments.
(August 22, 1986)
STATE RACES BULLETIN 86 - 34
SUBJECT: RACES HISTORY - PART 2 of 2 Upon the implementation of RACES in 1952, CCDN formed the nucleus from which to build. A RACES frequency allocation plan for California was prepared and is still in use today for the high frequency spectrum.
California has always been a leader in Civil Defense preparedness and communications. Our communications problems are unique in that we are the most populous state in the nation. Our terrain, the most complex with the highest mountain (14,495 feet) and the lowest elevation (minus 282 feet), presents extremely difficult coverage problems. Paradoxically, our Mt. Diablo sees more of the Earth's surface than any other mountaintop in the western hemisphere. Some of our counties are larger than many of the 48 contiguous states.
The RACES was established to provide government with Civil Defense and disaster emergency communications. The means to communicate where no other means exist and to augment overloaded circuits when called upon to do so by Civil Defense authorities.
RACES will remain in operation if ever again a national crisis requires the suspension of Amateur Radio operations.
(September 29, 1986)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 35
SUBJECT: ARRL, ARES AND RACES The following is from ARRL's "The ARRL Letter":
"Public-Service Communications: The Blue Ribbon Committee, formed to study all aspects of amateur communications following a widespread disaster such as the Mexican Earthquake, presented its interim report. The Committee recommended that ARRL should combine all emergency activities (ARES, RACES, Skywarn, etc.) under the ARRL umbrella and that it should, in conjunction with FEMA, Red Cross and other agencies, develop an emergency communications team capability. Subcommittees are continuing to study the emergency communications team concept, as well as large traffic overloads in the NTS."
Next Monday is a State holiday so there will be no CCDN 13 October 1986. Drive carefully, use your safety belts and be careful with fire outdoors.
(October 6, 1986)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86-36
SUBJECT: PHOTOCOPIERS A PHOTOCOPIER'S BRIGHT LIGHT CONTAINS ULTRAVIOLET RAYS WHICH CAN DAMAGE THE EYES' RETINAS AND PERHAPS CAUSE CATARACTS. ALSO: THE RAYS MAY PRODUCE OZONE, A LUNG IRRITANT. SOLUTION: KEEP THE COPIER IN A LARGE, WELL-VENTILATED AREA. CLOSE THE RADIATION- PROOF COVER WHEN YOU USE THE COPIER. SHUT YOUR EYES AND LOOK AWAY IF THE ITEM YOU ARE COPYING IS TOO BIG FOR THE COVER TO CLOSE OVER IT.
(SGD) WILLIAM MURRAY, RADIATION SECTION CHIEF, NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH, CINCINNATI, OHIO
FOR W6NKR BROADCAST 10/20/86
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 37
SUBJECT: PROPER COMMUNICATIONS CHANNELS WE FREQUENTLY GET REQUESTS FROM CITY AND COUNTY RACES AND OTHER AMATEURS ON HOW TO CONTACT US DIRECTLY IN SACRAMENTO. WHEREAS THIS IS OK ON AN INFORMAL BASIS, THE DANGER IS THAT SOME AMATEURS MAY BE LED TO BELIEVE THAT THAT IS THE ACCEPTED COMMUNICATIONS ROUTE. THIS IS NOT THE CASE. STATE OES IS DIVIDED INTO SIX MUTUAL AID REGIONS. THUS ALL COUNTY AMATEUR/RACES COMMUNICATIONS GOES TO THEIR APPROPRIATE OES REGION AND NOT TO SACRAMENTO. ALL COMMUNICATIONS PLANS AND OPERATIONS SHOULD REFLECT THIS.
IF YOU NEED THE NAMES, ADDRESSES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF THE STATE OES REGION RACES COORDINATOR AND THE REGION RACES OFFICER SERVING YOUR AREA, CONTACT THIS STATION BY RETURN MESSAGE.
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on OCTOBER 27, 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 38
SUBJECT: PACKET TIPS WE ENCOURAGE PACKET MESSAGES TO OES HEADQUARTERS BUT THERE ARE SOME PROBLEMS AND TIPS OF WHICH YOU SHOULD BE AWARE.
FIRST, WE HAVE LEARNED THAT ANY ROUTE THAT REQUIRES MORE THAN TWO DIGIPEATERS TO REACH US IS HIGHLY UNRELIABLE. PACKET IS EXCELLENT FOR LOCAL AREA TIME CRITICAL COMMUNICATIONS, BUT NO AT ALL FOR LONG HAUL. THERE IS TOO MUCH INTERFERENCE ALONG THE WAY.
SECOND, WE STRONGLY DISCOURAGE ANY LINKUPS REQUIRING MORE THAN TWO INTERVENING DIGIPEATERS BECAUSE, ONCE YOU HAVE MADE A CONNECT WITH US, WE USUALLY NEVER RECEIVE A SUBSEQUENT DISCONNECT. AS A RESULT OUR STATION IS LEFT IN A CONNECTED OFF- THE-HOOK STATE INCAPABLE OF RECEIVING ANY FURTHER TRAFFIC UNTIL AN OPERATOR COMES IN THE SCAN THE PRINTER AND RESET THE SYSTEM. THAT COULD BE HOURS OR EVEN DAYS LATER. SOMEDAY WE MAY HAVE A SYSTEM THAT WILL RESET US AFTER, SAY, 10 MINUTES OF NO COMMUNICATIONS. BUT IN THE MEANTIME WE ASK THAT DIRECT PACKET COMMUNICATIONS TO US ON .05 BE LIMITED TO APPROXIMATELY FRESNO TO THE SOUTH AND REDDING TO THE NORTH.
THIRD, WE ENCOURAGE THE USE OF THE WESTNET PACKET MAILBOX SYSTEM FOR ROUTINE TRAFFIC BETWEEN US AND ANY AMATEUR PACKET STATION. IF YOU CAN REACH ONE OF THEIR MAILBOXES FROM YOUR LOCALE, YOUR MESSAGE WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY FORWARDED TO SACRAMENTO BY ADDRESSING US AS "KH6GBX @ WA6NWE". IF YOU ARE NOT SURE ABOUT YOUR AREA, CALL ME AT 916-427-4281 DURING OFFICE HOURS. KH6GBX
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on NOVEMBER 3, 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 40
SUBJECT: CALIFORNIA SAR 1985 STATISTICS RELEASED AMATEUR RADIO FREQUENTLY REPORTS AND SUPPORTS SEARCH AND RESCUE INCIDENTS. MORE THAN 2,000 SAR MISSIONS WERE UNDERTAKEN IN CALIFORNIA IN 1985, RESULTING IN THE SAFE RESCUE OF 2,531 PEOPLE. THIS WAS COMPILED FROM DATA SUBMITTED BY 53 COUNTIES, CHP AIR OPERATIONS, THE CA WING CAP, THE CA RESCUE DOG ASSOCIATION, WILDERNESS FINDERS INC., CA DIVE AND RESCUE TEAMS, AND THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE. MANY PEOPLE HAVE MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR THIS COMING THANKSGIVING DAY. WE SALUTE THE SAR PEOPLE EVERYWHERE.
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on 17 NOVEMBER 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 41
SUBJECT: PACKET RECOMMENDED FOR EVERYATTENTION: All OES Agencies
Packet radio by Amateur radio has proven its value and benefit to emergency operations at all government levels. In response to frequent queries from local governments, State OES does recommend that local governments procure packet radio equipment for its EOC and offices. Transportable packet has also proven its value in comm vans, mobile, and briefcase units.
A basic packet station to support OES operations must include a computer, a packet Terminal Node Controller, a two-way radio, a printer and an appropriate antenna system. A disc drive accessory is recommended but not mandatory.
Please direct any questions to your OES Region Communications Coordinator.
(For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on 24 NOVEMBER 1986)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 42
SUBJECT: RACES PROGRAM GUIDANCE POLICY We have been in close contact with the FCC in the matter of RACES and other emergency communications programs. The FCC staff and their involvement in these areas was sharply curtailed in 1982. Last month the FCC expressed their pleasure and support with the State of California (OES) because it is providing fulltime staff to provide guidance in RACES--a function that neither the FCC or FEMA is funded or staffed to continue. Towards that end the FCC staff expressed their appreciation and confidence in this office to take the leadership role in interpreting and implementing the intent of the RACES Subpart F. We and the Commission agree there are inequities in Subpart F. We further agree to interpret and advise in the RACES program plans and management in a manner which we genuinely believe to reasonably serve the interests of the State and its local governments--unless otherwise directed by the Commission.
(Signed)STANLY E. HARTER, KH6GBX State RACES Coordinator
MARION J. HENSON, W6NKR State RACES Officer
(For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on DECEMBER 1, 1986)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 43
SUBJECT: WHAT IS A RACES STATION? This question has been asked by some Amateurs who fear that, if they sign up in RACES, their equipment may become a RACES station and thus the property of the government. This is not true.
A RACES station is an Amateur radio station licensed to a civil defense organization, not an individual. They are readily identified by their WC6 prefix in California. If you have never heard one it is because there are very few of them left. The FCC has not issued any RACES station licenses since 1982. Reference FCC 97.171(b). Your personal or club call at an OES EOC is not, repeat not, a RACES station. Reference FCC 97.163(b). It may be a station operating in the RACES, however.
The forgoing must be thoroughly understood before reading FCC 97.189 that defines points of communications. The Commission's intent of 97.189 is when RACES resources are used in a wartime context and is not meant to detract from the peacetime use of Amateur radio operators. If one wants to be extremely specific in regards to section (b)(ii), the State and its subdivisions, to the best of our knowledge, have no provision for or intention to register Amateur radio stations repeat stations. Thus, part 97.189 is moot.
Again, we use and will continue to use the term RACES in its reasonable and accepted interpretation: Amateurs providing emergency radiocommunications for a specific local government office of emergency services. Reference section 97.163a.
Sgd/S. E. Harter, Vice Chair, FCC SECC California
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on DECEMBER 8, 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 44
SUBJECT: PORTABLE RADIO TIP Sometimes portable radios have to be placed on the floor, the seat or the dashboards of cars. Then they go scooting off turning corners. One method of retarding their unwanted movement is to take an old bicycle inner tube and cut off some one inch wide cross sections. Slip it around your radio or its carry case and the rubber will now greatly retard slipping and sliding.
You may wish to put some paper between this oversized rubber band and your radio to prevent discoloration or the rubber migrating into the plastic.
Never leave a portable on the dash or anywhere lying in the direct summer sun. Even professional portables can drift off frequency when subjected to such heat.
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on DECEMBER 15, 1986
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 45
SUBJECT: NEW STATE OES CALLSIGN EFFECTIVE JANUARY 5, 1987, THE AMATEUR RADIO CALLSIGN FOR THE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES, STATE OES HEADQUARTERS, SACRAMENTO, WILL CHANGE FROM KH6GBX TO W6HIR. THANKS TO THE SUPPORT FROM RAMS, THE RADIO AMATEUR MOBILE SOCIETY INC., STATE OES HEADQUARTERS WILL HAVE A CALLSIGN THAT WILL IDENTIFY THIS ACTIVITY AND LOCATION INSTEAD OF AN INDIVIDUAL. THE PACKET RADIO CALLSIGN WILL BECOME W6HIR-1. PLEASE NOTE THIS CHANGE IN YOUR RECORDS AND RACES PLANS. MAY YOU AND YOURS ALL HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS. 73,
STAN HARTER, KH6GBX, STATE RACES COORDINATOR
MARION HENSON, W6NKR, STATE RACES RADIO OFFICER
(Dec. 22, 1986)
STATE RACES BULLETIN NR 86 - 46
SUBJECT: NEW YEAR'S GREETINGS!
It doesn't matter who you are,
Or what you have, or do.
If you give your very best,
The best returns to you.
A law of compensation works,
We get just what we earn,
If we love others with our hearts,
We get love in return.
The little things we sometimes do
For others day by day,
Return quite unexpectedly
In some peculiar way.
Thanks to all the Amateurs that made our joint efforts a success in 1985. We could not have done it without you--near and far. May the coming new year bring you all good health and happiness. Best wishes from the Governor's Office of Emergency Services and its Telecommunications Division staff. 73, KH6GBX, W6NKR, W6HIR, WB6UCK, W6NKE, W6EZE, N6ECP, WA6EQQ, KA6VHF, N6HOS, KD6DY, W6CFQ, K6QIF, WB6HQE, WB6WZA, W6UBI, KB6HP, WB6PQM, KA6YRC, WA6FUN, N6IG, N6GOZ and N6KUO
For statewide broadcast by W6NKR on DECEMBER 29, 1986
