Radio Operators Testing Emergency Preparedness This Weekend In Montco
By Mark Abrams
JENKINTOWN, Pa. (CBS) - Amateur radio operators from throughout the region will join thousands across the country in a field emergency test this weekend.
Bob Josuweit, ham radio call sign WA3PZO, is president of the Holmesburg Amateur Radio Club, among the groups serving the Philadelphia area. He says radio operators are gathering in Avelthorpe Park in Jenkintown to take part in the special exercise:
"This gives them an opportunity to take their radio equipment into the field, set up with a station, put up an antenna which could just be a piece of wire, bring a generator out and test their communications skills as if it was an emergency. But, at the same time, having fun and learning more about the hobby."
Josuweit says local and state governments call on ham radio operators in times of hurricanes, tornadoes or floods to help provide back-up communications when cell phones and phone networks are disrupted.
