At this time, it does not look like a “communications emergency” is likely to occur. Unlike weather and wildfire disasters which often cause extensive damage to communications infrastructure, a biological emergency typically has a low likelihood of disruption to services and utilities such as electricity, gas, water, sanitation, cable, landline and cellular phone service.
Federal, state and local governments are closing or restricting non-employee access to schools, government facilities, offices and agencies, including many local facilities that have been in regular use by the amateur radio community. Clubs and VE exam sessions may not be able to utilize their usual locations. Meetings, hamfests, training events and other amateur radio gatherings may be curtailed for an indefinite time, and this could have a significant impact on local participation. As more and more events and activities are canceled, the associated amateur radio involvement in those activities will not be able to take place either.
Rather than make an immediate blanket cancellation of all amateur radio activities in our Western Pennsylvania Section, we should seek and comply with the guidance of our partner agencies. For example, if your club meets in your county EOC, your club leaders should immediately contact your county EMA leadership for guidance. If your EOC is currently closed, or the school where you hold your meetings is closed, then your club cannot have a meeting—because the agency who owns the meeting place has closed it.
That last part is important. The responsibility is upon the owner of the facility, not on its guests, like amateur radio clubs.
It is also important for all leaders to communicate with their members about all closures, as soon as possible. Keeping our amateur radio communities informed of changes in a timely manner will maintain the trust and goodwill that we have all worked so hard to establish.
We can categorically state that the ultimate decision of whether or not to participate by any radio amateur rests entirely with each individual. Ultimately, each of us is responsible for our own safety and security, and that of our dependents.
We encourage everyone to put safety first, and if they have any doubts, to follow the wisdom of the old saying, “Better safe than sorry.”
Stay safe and stay healthy!
/s/ Joe, W3BC, WPA SM by Carmine, K3CWP
