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.
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: 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.
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The Viking Mountain Repeater (145.410 MHz), initially down due to power outages, was restored within days using donated batteries.
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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.
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Provided reliable communication for field teams when cellular networks were down.
Rugged design and long battery life made them ideal for flood-affected areas.
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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.
