While the issue of PTSD is both political and philosophical in many circles the reality is when people are exposed to significant events there is stress, and there are varied reactions to this stress. ARES leaders need to make sure there are debriefings and other events in their operational plans so their folks can deal with post event issues. Emergency crews have steps in place to handle this matter, why can’t we?.
These portions of your plan need to be practiced after every call out or exercise, not just on major events. It takes time for people to realize these help, it takes time for people to be comfortable in debriefings, and it takes time for people to realize it really could happen to them. The url below will take you to a report on the Napa Valley earthquake.
This years winner in the British Columbia Lifeline Recognition Program for Radio Communication is Neil Townsend. Neil is the station manager for VE7PEP in Victoria. Congratulation Neil
RAC ANNOUNCES NEW CHIEF OF FIELD SERVICES ORGANIZATION
RAC is pleased to announce that Mr. William (“Bill”) Boskwick (VE4BOZ/VE4IR) has accepted the position of Chief Field Services Officer (CFSO). This is an executive level position within RAC and reports to the President.
One of the significant roles within Field Services is the enabling of amateur emergency communications at the regional level. Amateur emergency communication (emcomm) has been involved in such crises as floods and fires in Alberta and Manitoba and hurricanes in Newfoundland. Emergency disaster response is a provincial/municipal responsibility in Canada.
Bill comes to RAC with a significant leadership and communication background in the Canadian Armed Forces.
As science moves along predictions change. Here is a report on the current California situation. BC should not get too smug. We need to prepare for a significant event. ARES LEADERS, this is interesting information.
In an effort to more fully engage the public about the tsunami threat Emergency Management British Columbia will hold their first Tsunami Awareness Week start March 22,2015. This will be done in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) from the US. For one of the handouts available go to
ARES UNITS.. This may be of interest to training officers. PLEASE remember that while the tsunami affects mainly coastal area assistance with be required from inlands sites. It may be advantageous to be aware of terms that will be used.
Those renewing or applying for the Public Safety Lifeline Volunteer program of EMBC will find an additional page outlining the Code of Conduct. This should eliminate any “confusion” that may occur
The Kamloops Amateur Radio Club advises their repeater, VELRO, will be taken off the air this weekend. It is expected to be back on the air in the next week or so. For more information go to
Police Forces in BC have launched a month long campaign against distracted drivers. The first time you get caught the fine is $167.00, plus points.. The second time, well you really don’t want to know ! ( It is well over five hundred dollars ) You should have a copy of your Certificate of Proficiency with you in your vehicle if you have a mobile rig, and if you have ham plates you MUST have a copy of your certificate ( check you vehicle registration paperwork). Remember too this legislation applies even if you are stalled in traffic or waiting for a light.
During the fire on the Vancouver Waterfront officials used the term shelter in place. Do you know what that means? You may also hear this term used during an event when it is safer for you and your family to stay where you are. The hazards to rescuers and you are such that a safe rescue may not be conducted. To find out what shelter in place means go to
