Local Radio Operators Test For Emergency Preparedness

By Mark Abrams

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Ham Radio Operators from the Philadelphia region are taking part in a nationwide communications field exercise this weekend. They will be testing their readiness in the event of an emergency.

Bob Josuweit, vice president of the Holmesburg Amateur Radio Club, says the group is setting up and operating portable field stations in Avelthorpe Park in the Jenkintown section Saturday through Sunday.

"This will give us the opportunity to put up antennas, operate equipment off of emergency power, such as generators, and make sure we're available should we be needed in an actual emergency," says Josuweit.

Josuweit explains Ham, from the Philadelphia area, will operate the stations communicating with others by voice, digital and Morse code modes.

Josuweit says the public is invited to visit the site and learn the role that amateur radio operators play as a back-up communications source for police, hospitals and public service agencies in times of disaster.

For more information visit: www.harcnet.org