Items we can improve this year in our ERC callings

Shirley Larsen AD7HL 4 January 2015 

Let’s all look at where we need to improve this year in our ERC callings.  Do we have problems checking into the net, programming or operating our radio equipment, or learning new radio modes?  I have a list of a few things that may get you thinking about what you need to do.  Please take out a pen or pencil and write down something that interests you from the list.

Does your ward have an emergency communications plan and do you have a list of leadership contact information in your ward.  LDS.org has some guides to help you give input to a plan.

Improve your operator knowledge—do you know how to program and use your radio equipment—if not, then spend some time reading your manuals and learning to really master those problem areas.  In an emergency you can’t rely on others to help you with your equipment problems.

Download manuals for all of your equipment in .pdf format to carry with you on smart phone, tablets, or laptops.  Once you have your manuals in digital format, you can use the word search function to quickly find what you need to know instead of aimlessly thumbing through pages.

Strongly consider making upgrades to your equipment that will allow you to be a more effective ham radio operator.  If you only have a handheld radio with a little rubber duck antenna, you may need to add a more powerful mobile or base station radio and larger antennas sufficient to allow you to pass information to a distant station.

Why not beef up your power options for your amateur radio equipment (solar power, re-chargeable batteries, gasoline or propane generator, smart charger for your batteries, or an inverter for non 12 volt equipment).

How about upgrading your ham radio license?  My hope is that everyone that is not an Extra Class operator will set the goal to upgrade at least one level this new year. The exams can be tough but working through every practice exam and a training manual is a good way get the job done!  If you are already an Extra Class operator consider taking the exam to become a volunteer examiner.

For medical reasons consider getting your American Red Cross CPR and First Aid Certificates.  Take some CERT or FEMA courses to sharpen your emergency communications skills.

Maybe you need to be more active in ham radio club activities such as helping out with communications support for races and other community events—great practice for emergency communications.

Do you have a radio communications emergency kit or a list of what you need to take with you in an emergency communications situation?  

Learn something new in ham radio.  It is fun to explore all the new digital modes in ham radio—pick something you like and master it. 

My hope is that everyone will use their skills for good. Volunteer your time in some way. Or simply befriend someone. Or patiently explain some part of the hobby to someone who likes to learn.

Think of ways to improve your spirituality to help you receive the inspiration you need in your ERC callings.