When disaster strikes, often times the only means of communications available is via radio. Depending on the nature and severity of the disaster it could be days, weeks or even months before normal means of communications can be restored. Living in Florida, we know all too well what the aftereffects of being hit by a major hurricane can mean to communications systems. As licensed radio operators, whether it be HAM or GMRS, it is important to be prepared for these types of scenarios. There are several online training classes available at no cost to help us be prepared and educated for these types of events.
One of the ways radio operators can be of help is to participate in the SKYWARN® program. SKYWARN® is a volunteer program with nearly 290,000 trained severe weather spotters. These volunteers help keep their local communities safe by providing timely and accurate reports of severe weather to the National Weather Service. Training for this program is free of charge and is available as both an in-person class and online. Information on the program for the Tampa Bay area can be found here: Tampa Bay SkyWarn Page. Additional online training information can also be found at Online Spotter Training and Other Resources.
National Incident Management System (NIMS)
The National Incident Management System (NIMS) is a comprehensive framework developed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to ensure effective, coordinated response to emergencies and disasters across all levels of government, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations.
NIMS is structured around several core elements:
- Command and Management: Includes the Incident Command System (ICS), Multiagency Coordination Systems, and Emergency Operations Centers.
- Preparedness: Training, exercises, and planning to ensure readiness.
- Resource Management: Identifying, typing, tracking, and mobilizing resources efficiently.
- Communications and Information Management: Promotes use of plain language and standardized communication protocols.
- Supporting Technologies: Tools and systems that enhance incident response capabilities.
NIMS provides a common language and structure for managing incidents, whether natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or public health emergencies.
Most of the basic NIMS course are available online at no cost. Some of the primary courses are listed below.
- ICS-100: Introduction to the Incident Command System
- ICS-200: ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents
- IS-700: National Incident Management System, An Introduction
- IS-800: National Response Framework, An Introduction
Additional information on NIMS training can be found at Emergency Management Institute – National Incident Management System (NIMS)
