Critical Lifelines: The Role of Amateur Radio and Preparedness in North Carolina's Hurricane Helene Response"

 Leveraging Amateur Radio Systems and Advanced Handheld Devices to Strengthen Emergency Communication Networks Before and After Disasters"

The question has been - "Were all communication systems down or out of commission for extended periods of time during the recent disaster in North Carolina?"

Answer - No. Many analog systems were operational and back to operational status within several days after the damage had impacted the area.

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Key Point in any potential disaster scenario -

Prepare Your Emergency Communication Equipment Ahead of Any Disaster.

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Wherever neighborhood systems were "down" for extended periods, but were, however, in-hand and otherwise mechanically operational and with power, then their "nonoperational status" would have been the result of those handheld systems not having been initially prepared to communicate with frequency confirmation ahead of the disaster.

Map of Fusion Repeaters

1. :

   • : Supported both analog and digital (C4FM) communications during the disaster, enabling emergency coordination.

   • Other Fusion repeaters in Western North Carolina provided dual-mode capabilities, ensuring connectivity for mixed analog and digital users.

2. :

   • The Viking Mountain Repeater (145.410 MHz), initially down due to power outages, was restored within days using donated batteries.

1. :

   • The D10 can connect to the analog side of Fusion repeaters by programming UHF/VHF frequencies, such as those used by Mt. Mitchell.

   • Pre-programming ensures seamless integration into amateur radio networks during emergencies.

2. :

   • Provided reliable communication for field teams when cellular networks were down.

   • Rugged design and long battery life made them ideal for flood-affected areas.

3. :

   • The D10 does not support C4FM digital mode, restricting its use to analog features of Fusion repeaters.

• Pre-program D10 radios with local repeater frequencies for immediate deployment.

• Deploy mobile repeaters to extend communication range for both amateur radios and D10 devices when fixed systems are damaged.

Forging Ahead

Moving down the Line With Confidence in Emergency Service Preparedness -

Comprehensive Outline for Emergency Communication Preparedness Like D10 Radios, Amateur Radio Systems, Mobile Repeaters and Other Similar Wireless Systems

I. Overview of the North Carolina Flood Disaster

Impact on Communication Infrastructure:

Cellular towers and power grids were severely damaged, isolating communities.

Amateur radio operators played a critical role in maintaining emergency communication through operational repeaters and HF frequencies.

Some amateur radio systems, such as the Viking Mountain Repeater, were temporarily down but restored within days using donated batteries.

II. Verified Operational and Non-Operational Radio Systems

Operational Systems:

Mt. Mitchell Repeater (145.19 MHz): Provided wide coverage and supported emergency nets for health and welfare updates.

HF Frequencies (40m and 80m bands): Used for regional communication across state lines when local repeaters were insufficient.

Non-Operational Systems:

Viking Mountain Repeater: Initially down due to power loss but restored within days with battery donations.

Other localized repeaters were affected by flooding or power outages but were repaired within a week.

III. Importance of Handheld Radios Like the KaYoTom D10

Key Features of D10 Radios:

Dual-mode operation: UHF/VHF analog compatibility for local communication and 4G LTE Push-to-Talk for long-range/global connectivity.

Rugged design: Waterproof and dust-proof (IP65-rated), suitable for harsh disaster conditions.

Long battery life: Equipped with a 6800mAh battery lasting up to 7 days.

GPS integration: Real-time tracking for locating teams or individuals during search-and-rescue operations.

Advantages During Disasters:

Immediate deployment with pre-programmed frequencies ensures readiness when infrastructure fails.

Dual-mode capability bridges gaps between amateur radio systems and modern cellular networks.

Enables team coordination over wide areas when local repeaters are down.

IV. Importance of Pre-Programming Handheld Radios

Aspect Pre-Programming Effects Ahead of Disasters

+ Post-disaster setup ease of use ready for immediate deployment.

- Time-consuming manual setup delays response efforts.

+ Access to networks ensures compatibility with local amateur repeaters and emergency channels.

- May struggle to identify active frequencies or repeaters.

+ Coordination facilitates seamless communication with pre-assigned groups or teams.

- Delayed coordination due to frequency scanning or tuning.

+ Reliability tested configurations ensure stable operation.

- Risk of misconfiguration under pressure.

V. Role of Mobile Repeaters in Extending Communication

Usefulness After Disasters:

Mobile repeaters can bridge gaps when stationary amateur radio systems are damaged or inaccessible.

They extend the range of handheld radios like the D10, allowing communication between dispatch centers, field teams, and affected communities.

Examples of Deployment:

Portable repeaters can be quickly set up in disaster zones to restore connectivity for both amateur radios and D10 devices.

Mobile units like Tactical Rapid Advanced Communications Kits (TRaCK Box) ensure secure communication networks in remote areas.

Advantages:

Enable real-time updates and coordination over wide areas.

Provide redundancy in case primary systems fail again during recovery efforts.

VI. Importance of Establishing Handheld Radio Systems Before Other Disasters

Scenarios Where Handheld Radios Are Critical:

Tornadoes: Can destroy cellular towers and amateur radio infrastructure; handheld radios provide immediate local communication.

Earthquakes: Severely damage infrastructure; rugged handheld devices like the D10 become essential for rescue coordination.

Wildfires: Spread rapidly over large areas, often cutting off power; handheld radios ensure continuous communication for evacuation and firefighting efforts.

Lessons from Recent Disasters:

In Maui wildfires, tethered drones with cellular nodes were deployed to restore temporary networks, highlighting the need for portable solutions like handheld radios and mobile repeaters during infrastructure failures.

VII. Proposed Plan for Future Disaster Preparedness

Procurement of Handheld Radios:

Invest in KaYoTom D10 radios for emergency responders to ensure dual-mode connectivity (UHF/VHF + LTE).

Pre-Programming and Testing:

Program radios with local repeater frequencies, NOAA weather alerts, and emergency channels.

Conduct regular testing with amateur radio operators to verify compatibility.

Deployment of Mobile Repeaters:

Equip disaster response teams with portable repeaters to extend communication range when fixed systems are down.

Use mobile units to connect isolated areas back to central command centers.

Training and Simulations:

Train personnel on proper use of handheld radios and mobile repeaters.

Simulate disaster scenarios to test system reliability under pressure.

Backup Power Solutions:

Include solar chargers or portable generators in emergency kits to keep handheld devices operational during prolonged outages.

Collaboration With Amateur Radio Operators:

Partner with local ham radio clubs to integrate handheld radios into existing networks during emergencies.

Annual Inspections and Updates:

Perform routine maintenance on handheld radios, mobile repeaters, and other equipment to ensure readiness.

VIII. Benefits of Investing in KaYoTom D10 Radios and Mobile Repeaters

Ensures robust communication even when primary systems fail due to disasters like floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, or fires.

Provides redundancy through dual-mode operation (analog + LTE) for short- and long-range connectivity.

Enhances safety through features like GPS tracking and panic buttons.

Reduces downtime by enabling immediate deployment with pre-programmed channels.

Strengthens coordination between first responders, amateur radio operators, relief teams, and mobile dispatch centers.

IX. Conclusion

By investing in KaYoTom D10 radios alongside mobile repeaters, organizations can ensure comprehensive disaster preparedness that bridges gaps in communication when traditional networks fail. This forward-thinking approach empowers communities by providing reliable tools for both immediate response and long-term recovery efforts during disasters like floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, or fires.

The Peacekeeping Task Force, PeaceBridgeNetwork, and American Peacekeeping Communications have invested in themselves as Emergency Service Providers and their dedication to building upon the expertise to implement these solutions effectively.  By managing preemptive preparation of communication systems while also deploying mobile dispatch centers equipped with advanced repeaters after disasters strike, these emergency peacekeepers will be much better prepared during future catastrophies. With their capabilities, communities can build a resilient communication network that saves lives and accelerates recovery in even the most challenging circumstances.

A Special Thank You to Everyone Who has Helped With the Recovery Efforts

Dear Valued Contributors to Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts,

 

 

On behalf of the Peacekeeping Task Force (PKTF), I extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the recovery, resupply, and rebuilding efforts upon North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. Your dedication, compassion, and tireless work have been instrumental in helping affected communities begin the process of healing and reconstruction.

We recognize that the primary drivers of relief efforts on the ground have been the surrounding state assemblies, as well as from assemblies afar off along with various other relief organizations. Your swift response and coordinated actions through this experience has been crucial in bringing much-needed supplies and support to the impacted regions. Your selfless service embodies the spirit of community and regional resilience that defines our ability to embrace one another with assistance as the people and We The People of other sovereign nation states.

While PKTF has not physically been at the forefront of the immediate relief efforts, we have been focusing our energies on analyzing the broader implications of this catastrophe and developing strategies to enhance future disaster response capabilities. This experience has provided invaluable insights into areas where we can improve our readiness and reaction times when faced with similar challenges in the future.

Our ongoing initiatives include:

1. Developing more reliable telecommunication equipment for areas prone to infrastructure disruption during disasters.
2. Working closely with American State Assemblies to transfer control of these network systems, empowering local management of critical communication channels.
3. Collaborating with both American and foreign State Assemblies to streamline peacekeeping functions within their Land, Soil and Sea jurisdictions.
4. Training PKTF-Assembly Liaisons to provide orientation on the seven distinct peacekeeping roles owed to all assemblies.
5. Introducing initial, comparative education as to the vital role of Ombudsman to interested State Assemblies, in line with worldwide industry standards.
6. Supporting American State Assembly Militia success by ensuring proper establishment and adherence to Federation of States recommendations for state border defense and self-governance.

These efforts aim to enhance our collective ability to respond effectively to future natural and man-made catastrophes, particularly along state borders, Federal court facilities, and state capitals during times of confirmed need according to law.

It's important to note that PKTF is currently a reader-supported service. Our operational funding, which maintains our web presence, regional and central office meeting spaces, professional mailing locations, communication capabilities, and multi-level networking potential, comes entirely from donations. This funding also covers our time and coordinated teamwork research expenses.

In the future, PKTF will seek annual funding for operations beyond State Assembly Militia Validation obligations. However, at present, we rely on the generosity of our supporters to continue our vital work.

As part of our fundraising efforts, PKTF also offers custom-designed logos that help present a peacekeeping presence upon each county where there is at least one status-corrected man or woman. If you're interested in obtaining your own uniquely created county peacekeeping design logo and supporting our mission, please contact our office for more details on this "by donation drive" opportunity.

Your continued support and collaboration are essential as we work together to build more resilient communities and improve our disaster and emergency medical response capabilities.

We are deeply grateful for your unwavering commitment to this cause and look forward to fostering even stronger partnerships in the future!

 

Thank you for your dedication to serving those in need and for being an inspiration to us all.

 

 

Sincerely,

Joseph Hayse

Executive Director

The Peacekeeping Task Force

On behalf of the Directorate Staff and our current Assembly Liaisons with The Peacekeeping Task Force (PKTF)