Via the ARRL: Hawaii ARES Drill Tests All Communications

The Hawaii Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES®) conducted an operational readiness drill on April 16 to evaluate their emergency communications abilities if severe weather were to hit the state and disable regular communications.

The exercise simulated a 4-day period of catastrophic rain and wind covering the Hawaiian Islands, from Kauai to the Big Island, which took out power, internet, and cell phone towers. State, local, and federal agencies participated in the exercise to evaluate ARES members and non-members for radio operations and procedures.

ARRL Director of Emergency Management Josh Johnston, KE5MHV, expressed that it’s important for all agencies to work together during emergencies. “It is great to see ARES work this closely with local and state government agencies to overcome obstacles and provide emergency communications for the public,” Johnston said. “Hawaii faces challenges that are different than other areas, but the general practice of preparing and exercising is the same anywhere you go.”

Read more – via American Radio Relay League | Ham Radio Association and Resources http://www.arrl.org/news/view/hawaii-ares-drill-tests-all-communications