What does the Precinct Comms do?

Walkie Talkie          chgetready

The Precinct Comms is the communication specialist, who is in charge of learning how to use walkie talkies or HAM Radio, and conducts the regular communication drills with your Precinct Block Captains and CERTS. (weekly works best)

Determine what time and day of the week will work best for your weekly check- in.
The FRS walkie talkie, use the channels 8-14.  Resist using the sub channels as they only block the sender from hearing other users.

The GMRS channels require a FCC License that is around $60.00, however, the channels are very clear. Channels 1-7 and 15 and up are GMRS Channels.  There are rules that govern the airwaves, so be clear as to their usage since fines may be issued where respect of usage is compromised.


Precinct Comms Duties will include training the Precinct Block Captains and CERTS how to use the walkie talkies and also how to use and report the Emergency Ribbon System with their neighbors.

It is of utmost importance that proper radio usage is learned and taught.  If the radio is held at the wrong angle, the signal will be compromised.  Hold it upright, not tipped, as the signal is like a plate connected on top of the antenna and if it is tipped the signal will shoot into the air and down into the ground.

Practicing correct handling and usage will determine whether the message is successfully transmitted and received.  This is critical, since in an emergency, time is matters.

A Precinct Block Captain/CERT Team check in roster that includes the Block Captain #, names, phone #'s and e-mail addresses is very helpful for contact and also to keep track of your regular drills.  Encourage your BC to report to another BC or the Precinct Leader if they will not be available during the drill that week.

Personal accountability to the Precinct Team effort also strengthens unity.

It is really fun to report in every week, same time, same channel.  It creates the synergy of unity in your neighborhood.

Take a look at a simple script that is available for you to begin practicing with so that your BC and CERTS get familiar with their radios and the reporting process.

Consider taking a HAM Radio course.  Transmission is much clearer getting and receiving  information to and from your Precinct to the District or the City Comms. 

HAM Radio Training
  http://www.wikihow.com/