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Emergency Communications 

The Federal Communication Commission regulations, the licensing authority for Amateur Radio, says that one of the many reasons we are granted a license is..." to provide an amateur radio service ..to the public as a voluntary noncommercial communication service, particularly with respect to providing emergency communications."

Although there are many other facets to ham radio, emergency communications is a great part of the Houston County Amateur Radio Club.  The HCARC is affiliated and takes part in local, state, and national emergency communications.  We are constantly upgrading our equipment and honing our skills through regular communications training so that we may meet the needs of our community, the state of Texas and our country in the time of emergency or disaster.  The members of the HCARC are there for radio communications, "when all else fails". Click here for more.

Amateur Radio's Public Service Story

--now available on video!

Narrated by former CBS news anchorman Walter Cronkite, KB2GSD, Amateur Radio Today showcases the public service contributions made by hams throughout the country. See the video at the ARRL web site.

                 http://www.arrl.org/ARToday/

SKYWARN 

SKYWARN™ is a concept developed in the early 1970s that was intended to promote a cooperative effort between the National Weather Service and communities. The emphasis of the effort is often focused on the storm spotter, an individual who takes a position near their community and reports wind gusts, hail size, rainfall, and cloud formations that could signal a developing tornado. Another part of SKYWARN™ is the receipt and effective distribution of National Weather Service information.  The Houston County Amateur Radio Club is a participant in the SKYWARN system.  Download your personal copy of the Basic SKYWARN Storm Spotters Field Guide here.

Contact Gene Grimes AD5QR for further Information.

You can monitor 24/7 automated current aviation weather located at the Houston County Airport, Crockett, Texas. Freq: 118.775. Remember it is AM, NOT FM signal. Of course you can use either USB or LSB to listen.

Excellent weather info from NOAA Hazards Radio, National Weather Service from radio station KWN34, Palestine, on 162.450 FM. Great signal. 24/7. Great for forecast.

Emergency Communications Disaster Drills 

Grapeland Disaster Drill - Feb 18, 2008.  The HCARC emergency communication volunteers are an integral part of the Houston County emergency preparedness.  The HCARC participated in the disaster drill at Grapeland, Texas.  This drill was coordinated with the Grapeland Fire, Police , Texas  DPS, Union Pacific Railroad and elected public officials.  Simulation was around a simulated railroad car explosion in Grapeland, Texas.  Other simulated call up agencies were, ATF, Hazmat, Red Cross, National Guard, and other local, state and federal agencies.

Emergency communication procedures will be posted.  Check back later.