EMC054 - The EOC "Radio Room"

In many jurisdictions there is a "radio room" adjacent or nearby to an EOC. The idea goes back some 50 years and is based on the concept of having operators on hand to supply backup radio in an emergency, typically by Amateur Radio licensees. However, 

times are changing and agency managers need to look to today's needs when it comes to designating facilities for a "radio room".

First, the concept (and name) of "radio room" is, itself, out-of date. More correctly it is a modern Communications Center (or COMM Center)

Second, the people who staff this facility are an on-going asset of the agency, albeit unpaid; not a reserve or group called in only in some far distant emergency, and are not limited to Amateur Radio licensees.

In reality, a Communications Center is a thriving central point for many communication systems and networks:

• computer network access to LANS and WANS (local area and wide area net systems) by people experienced in emergency communica- tions (something few agency staff have a background in to any extent.)
• that computer access may be via wired networks, cell systems, satellite systems, television AS WELL AS RADIO (agency and Amateur Radio) that may be used with OR WITHOUT computers.
• the people that support these systems must have an organized place from which to work as an integral part of the emergency information and response system of the agency.
• these people have special talents vital to emergency response:
  • highly skilled problem solvers.
  • highly motivated, will show up on days that paid staff take as a paid day off; or in the evening and on weekends, which are times few paid staff will show up, unless an emergency or overtime.*
  • they are far less cynical towards their agency than many paid staff (the staff cynicism may be unknown to agency managers.)
  • they want to be a part of the agency they support. Providing this work center for their activity establishes that bond.*

(Do not misunderstand: they are in training for emergency support, not as substitute staff. Their on-going presence is a superior form of training that educates in agency nuances, protocol, and other aspects difficult to perceive with sporadic once-in-a-while activities.)