Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the BC Coast.  Ensure you pay attention to your local forecast for the next 24 hours.  To see the affected areas go to

http://weather.gc.ca/warnings/index_e.html?prov=bc

At the present time BC has three recognized NTS nets,the British Columbia Emergency Net (BCEN,) the British Columbia Yukon Traffic Net (BCYTN) and the Coast Emergency Traffic Net (CECA).  In the last three months of 2013 these nets handled 357 pieces of traffic.  These numbers would support the idea that NTS is alive and well in British Columbia.

In addition, the BC Official Bulletin Stations, of which there are 16 covering 23  nets relayed 688 bulletins in 2013.  Thanks to all involved in relaying information.

The winter weather in North America has been the topic of much conversation of late. If all this weather isn’t enough to make you work on you and the families emergency preparedness plans perhaps it would be helpful to read the article noted below. The reality is we need to be prepared. ARES units need to be ready to respond. If you are an ARES member you need to ensure your family is properly looked after before you respond. Planning will assist you with the ability to respond promptly.

http://www.newsminer.com/news/alaska_news/threat-level-of-alaska-volcano-upgraded/article_f63476c0-7412-11e3-8e6d-0019bb30f31a.html

Read about one of the largest sunspots seen in years; indications are it could have an impact on earth.  For all the details go to

http://spaceweather.com./

This article was originally printed last April. I don’t think much has changed in  the interim and the article still makes some valid points

Those involved in emergency communications have long expressed concern about social media, both the good and bad.  The issue of bad is one that has risen lately. The article below is an example.  It once again demonstrates the need for accurate and timely information. This sometimes requires the ability to quickly react. Can your ARES unit react quickly enough to assist your Public Information Officer or Incident Commander ? Just some questions that need to be discussed during training sessions, BEFORE the incident occurs.

http://www.cnn.com/2013/04/23/tech/social-media/tweet-ripple-effect/index.html?hpt=hp_c3

The City of Nanaimo will be conducting low volume tests of their new warning siren system. No action is required if you hear the sirens.

The site below will take you to an interesting article on amateur radio and emergency communications in Wales.  They too seem to be short of members and are looking for more. They have some interesting qualifications and procedures too. To read the article go to

http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/10904198.Gwent_radio_hams_ready_to_help_in_emergency/?ref=rss

Environment Canada has issued a new direction in their reporting of  wind chill and extreme cold. This information is useful for everyone, but especially for ARES folks involved in search and rescue teams and other cold weather response. For the changes go to

http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/environment-canada-to-alter-how-it-reports-wind-chill-extreme-cold-1.2478408

As 2013 comes to a close I would like to wish you and your family all the best in 2014. May all your wishes come true, and the propagation switch work whenever you need it

HAPPY NEW YEAR

73  Paul

Just a reminder for those of you with emergency kits.  The water and appropriate food items should be rotated every six months.  Now may be a good time to do that,  what with all the shopping and celebrations ongoing at this time of year. There should be ample “presents”  to give to your emergency kit.

Being Prepared is part of the Solution….,