Learn more about amateur radio volunteering

1500 Hours, Monday, Jan. 28, 2013 The Sussex County Emergency Operations Center will hold an informational meeting in February for amateur radio operators interested in volunteering their services during disasters and other large-scale events.

The meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb 19, in the training room of the Sussex County EOC, located at 21911 Rudder Lane, east of Georgetown. EOC Director Joseph L. Thomas will lead the informational session describing the duties of the emergency center and how volunteer amateur radio operators serve a critical role in crisis situations.

Amateur radio operators, also known as “hams,” regularly support the EOC during weather emergencies and large public events, providing both tactical and backup communications, particularly when conventional means such as telephone and Internet services are down. Radio operators often relay information from fellow hams in the field about weather conditions, property damage and other observations – information that is vital as emergency planners coordinate their response.

This meeting will be a great opportunity to learn more about the EOC’s public safety role and get a behind-the-scenes look at the center. Guided tours of the EOC will follow the informational meeting.

The event is free, and no registration is required. For more information, please call (302) 855-7801.

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