WHAT DO CERT HAMS DO IN A DISASTER?

Bodega Bay CERT Hams are FCC licensed amateur radio operators who prepare for Bodega Bay potential disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, wildfires and a variety of other emergency problems.

 

In Bodega Bay we are associated with the professional first responders at the Bodega Bay Fire Protection District. The fire district considers CERT Hams to be their eyes and ears on the ground during a disaster. First responders will not be able to be everywhere in the disaster and will rely on CERT Hams to inform them of the situation so that resources can be best put to use.

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Specifically, our CERT Hams play the role of communicators in several ways during a disaster.

 

• Our Hams work in teams with other CERT trained members to check on the neighborhood, render assistance where possible, organize the neighborhood for the welfare of all, coordinate with other teams, report to CERT          Leaders and report to CERT Command and Control at the main fire station.

 

• We talk with other CERT Teams in the neighborhood to coordinate needs for shelter, food and water, medical and triage, light rescue, small fire suppression and the many other disaster impacts.

 

• We call in to CERT Net Control at the fire station to report the status of power outages, road conditions, environmental elements (such as flooding, fire, liquefaction) and other significant disaster conditions that first responders and other CERT neighborhoods need to know about.

 

• We call in to CERT Net Control at the fire station to inform first responders of need for assistance in fire, medical and rescue efforts. In some cases paramedics or EMTs may provide quick response consultation over the Ham radios for medical conditions. Responders may also be able to advise on fire suppression and rescues as well.

Many Hams will also be trained to operate the CERT Net Control at the fire station. They will answer other CERT Hams calls and inform the Emergency Operations Center of conditions, logistical needs, and threat situations as reported by CERT Hams. They will also assist in coordination among neighborhoods.