First Response

1. Determine the extent of the disaster or emergency and call key people. Ref: Appendix A using either the repeater or by telephone. Keep in mind there may be a need there to avoid publicity or panic.

2. If the EC is not immediately available an experienced AEC shall assume the position until the EC is available. AECs should assist in calling out people in their area as required. Ref: Appendix C. The area AEC is shown as AEC A in bold type.

3. Secure the repeater frequency with a net control station (NCS.). In some cases you may have to be Net Control until others are available. Ref: Net Control Protocol. If the repeater is out of service use 146.640 MHz. direct until an alternate repeater or simplex frequency is chosen.

4. The EC shall ask AECs to assist with disaster evaluation and contacting relevant agencies like Fire, Police and Municipal officials to offer our assistance. Ref: Appendix B Note: A request must come from an outside agency if LNL ARES is to be involved. If our assistance may be required but no specific need is known, ask stations to be on standby and listen periodically; for example every hour on the hour.

5. The EC should determine where Net Control is best located and if the MOBILE COMMAND POST should be deployed. An AEC should arrange to have it moved on site, if required. Note: ARES personnel should be readily identifiable with badges and if possible vests.

6. Where relevant or requested, mobiles or persons with experience in setting up a base station should be dispatched as needed. Ref: Lanark Co. ARES antenna locations in Appendix D

7. Whenever possible, a mobile Technical Station should be established at a centrally located Net Station. This station should be equipped with spare equipment, accessories, tools and instruments required for the maintenance and repair of Net Stations.

8. After completing the above steps contact should be made with outside ARES groups via HF or VHF to determine what mutual assistance can be provided, if needed.

9. If it appears to be a prolonged event a logistics person shall be delegated to schedule relief shifts, arrange for food etc. For a list of service stations with standby power see Appendix E.

10. In many instances the RED CROSS will be involved and may need communications via Amateur Radio, particularly if telephone service is erratic or unavailable.

11. As the event progresses we will follow our 'Standard Operating Procedure'.