While most people depend on a smartphone in an emergency, the Portage County Amateur Radio Service (PCARS) is preparing for the moment those phones don’t work anymore.
The Portage County Amateur Radio Service is inviting residents to witness and participate in an emergency communications preparedness exercise at Freedom Township Park 6836 Streeter Rd June 27-June 28 in Freedom Township for the nationwide ARRL Field Day.
Field Day is North America’s premier emergency communications exercise, mobilizing more than 40,000 amateur radio operators across the U.S. And Canada to test their off-grid communications capabilities.
During the two-day event, local amateurs will erect portable radio stations, operate solely on emergency power and establish contacts with other amateur radio operators around the continent in real time.
The Portage County Amateur Radio Service maintains a close working relationship with Portage County Emergency Management, and their volunteer operators contribute to communications readiness for local training exercises, community events, and other emergency preparedness activities.
Field Day is the public’s opportunity to observe this contribution firsthand. Visitors at Field Day will have the chance to experience:
• Live demonstrations of actual radio equipment
• Participate in hands-on operation by making radio contacts
• Learn about communication preparedness for disasters
• Receive an overview of the role of amateur radio in supporting our communities.
No prior experience with amateur radio is necessary, and families and people of all ages are welcome.
As a 501©(3) non-profit organization, the Portage County Amateur Radio Service promotes public service, technical training, and a more resilient community, and Field Day serves as a showcase of its volunteer driven work throughout Portage County.
Residents, local organizations, and community partners are invited to visit and learn about amateur radio and its important work to support Portage County.
