Pike County Officials Request Amateur Radio Operators Assistance

Pike County Officials Request Amateur Radio Operators Assistance

Ham radio operators needed to check-in on local repeaters

Amateur Radio operators are being asked to assist with Search and Rescue operations in Pike County.

Little Rock, Arkansas, June 13, 2010 – The Pike County Sherriff has requested Amateur Radio operators who are capable of walking through very rough terrain to assist with search and rescue operations tomorrow morning. 

Volunteers need to be in good physical condition as these are demanding conditions.  Joshua Carroll, Public Information Coordinator for the American Radio Relay League in Arkansas said, “This is the type of situation for which Amateur Radio operators train.  We always hope that we aren’t needed.  But when in scenarios where cellular service isn’t available and other forms of communications may not be reliable, Amateur Radio is always ready.

Volunteers should be mindful that this is extremely rough terrain and it is not easy work.  Those willing to help should monitor local repeaters – coordination for volunteers is being conducted at the top of each hour until 10:00 pm tonight.

Amateur Radio operators are being reminded that tactical communications may be conducted on local repeaters throughout the state.  All operators should listen before transmitting.  Amateur Radio communications in the affect area are taking place on 146.925 megahertz, in coordination with the Howard County Search and Rescue.

Contact Information:
Amateur Radio Relay League, Arkansas Section
Joshua Carroll – N5JLC, Public information Coordinator
http://ar.arrl.org