“When all else fails, HAM radio works.” This has been a slogan used by ham radio operators for decades. Bad things happen that create the need for emergency communications, such as blizzards, tornados, floods, crashes, and civil disorders.
A new hazard was presented recently by FBI Director Christopher Wray to a House subcommittee on China. He says China has been ramping up a hacking operation designed to take down the United States’ oil pipelines, power grid, and water systems if a conflict occurs involving Taiwan.
Wray said, “China’s hackers are positioning on American infrastructure in preparation to wreak havoc and cause real-world harm to American citizens and communities, if or when China decides the time has come to strike.’ The “When all else fails…” slogan has never been more relevant. For the sake of you and your family, someone in your family should obtain the entry level ham radio license. Public Safety agencies are encouraged to have at least several staff members take the course.
The High Desert Amateur Radio Group (HIDARG) through the Central Oregon Community College (COCC) community education program offers a course that will assist you in obtaining a ham radio license in one day.
The course prepares students for the entry level “Technician Class” ham radio License and is sanctioned by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This class of license allows operation on most amateur emergency frequencies.
The official FCC test will be administered by certified volunteer examiners at the end of the class. Students must obtain a score of 70% to earn the license. A typical average score for students using this curriculum is in the 90’s. No prior knowledge of electronics is needed to pass this test. The only math involved is very simple algebra.
The next classes are scheduled for February 24th & March 23rd and cost a total of $64, and include the class, manual, and testing fees. More information is available at www.hidarg.org
