[aprssig] APRS in Disaster area

[AE5PL Lists]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Robert Bruninga
> Posted At: Friday, September 02, 2005 9:44 AM
> Subject: RE: [aprssig] APRS in Disaster area
> 
> Yes, of course, if they know how to, or have better ideas 
> about re-establishing the APRS network, then of course 
> folllow their lead.  But in most areas, only 2% of the HAM 
> population knows anything about APRS and has no clue how to 
> "instruct" its re-constitution.

You missed the point, Bob.  In an emergency situation, it is the
AUTHORITIES in charge, NOT the individual operators who decide what type
of communications are to be used and how those communications are to be
used.  If APRS is not in their plan, then it is not the prerogative of
the individual operators to try to establish their own subnet at the
expense of the requirements passed down from the authorities.

> EACH person must monitor the frequency
> and react to the need.  If digipeating is needed then offer 
> to do it.  If not needed, then dont. 

NEGATIVE!  In an emergency situation, each operator MUST follow the
instructions of those that have sent them to the scene.  PERIOD!  I am
sorry to shout, but this is not a maverick operation where everyone goes
and plays with whatever they have available.  This is an emergency
situation where lives are at stake and experimenting with your radios is
not part of ANY emergency plan.

> ALSO REMEMBER THIS #1 RULE:  APRS shares
> 2 meters with LOTS of other HAM radio needs.

WRONG!  RULE #1 is DO ONLY AS REQUESTED BY THE AUTHORITIES IN CHARGE.
If you want to play radio, play APRS, play anything, stay home and be
quiet (don't transmit on emergency net frequencies).  This is serious
business.  Be part of the solution, not the problem.

73,

Pete Loveall AE5PL
mailto:pete at ae5pl.net