The Chattanooga Amateur Radio Club, an IRS 501(c)3 non profit organization which owns three Hamilton County repeaters and a Mobile Communications Platform, announced a 24-hour Emergency Communications Exercise simulating a nationwide 24-hour communications disruption.
Barclay “Mac” Thomas, vice president, said, "As with any declared disaster or emergency situation, amateur radio operators licensed by the Federal Communications Commission spring into action immediately, providing emergency and disaster communications services to federal, state, and local governmental agencies, and also to charitable organizations such as hospitals, the Red Cross, Salvation Army, and others."
The Amateur Radio Operators will set up amateur radio stations at the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Park located near Highway 153 at Amnicola Highway, on Kings Point Road beginning at 2 p.m.
Saturday running through 2 p.m. on Sunday.
“The public is invited to watch our Amateur Radio Operators demonstrate the science and skill of amateur radio,” said Mr. Thomas.
"There is no charge, and visitors are welcome to bring a blanket and picnic lunch to spend some time with us touring each of the radio stations we will set up to pass simulated disaster-related messages."
He also said, "Members of the public are welcome to have a seat and make a few contacts under the supervision of one of our licensed control operators.”
The Amateur Radio Service uses frequencies independent of those used by commercial radio and cellular systems to provide emergency and disaster services to the public at no charge.
Information will be made available at the TVA park for anyone desiring more information about the process of becoming licensed as a “ham” radio operator, and any questions and requests for additional information can be directed to Mr. Thomas at vpresident@w4am.net or by visiting the website of the Chattanooga Amateur Radio Club at www.w4am.org
