BVS Emergency Radio Distribution Saturday, July 19
The Bear Valley Springs Emergency Radio Team (BVSERT) is hosting a Resident Radio Program distribution Saturday, July 19, at the Equestrian Center parking lot, 26800 Bear Valley Rd. There will be two opportunities to get your emergency radio, one from 9 am to 10 am and the next from 3 pm to 4 pm.
The BVSERT requests a $25 donation in exchange for your radio. This radio distribution is open to all Bear Valley residents. If you haven't pre-ordered a radio, that's okay; you can still come by and pick one up.
The BVSERT is an official part of the BVS Emergency System. The ERT is an affiliate of TARA (Tehachapi Amateur Radio Association) and is composed of licensed amateur radio (Ham) operators in BVS and adjacent communities. The primary function of the ERT is emergency radio communications in case of a disaster. Ham radio operates independently of traditional infrastructure, making it a crucial backup communication system during emergencies. When traditional communication channels fail, amateur radio operators can step in to relay important messages, coordinate rescue efforts, and provide critical updates to first responders.
To support emergency communications in the Valley, BVSERT has initiated the Resident Radio Program (RRP). This is a voluntary program that connects the residents of BVS to amateur radio emergency communications. In recent California disasters such as the Paradise fire, all forms of communication were destroyed except for amateur radio. The RRP is designed for residents to receive information from the BVS Police Chief or his designated representative in the event of an emergency.
To achieve this, a radio is provided to participating residents to be placed in their residence. The radio is programmed and tested by the ERT. Per FCC regulations, the radio will only receive, not transmit. The radio is battery powered and mobile. It can operate for 48 hours when fully charged. The radio will be activated (alerted) at the direction of the BVS Police Chief or his representative. Instructions will be broadcast over the radio. The residents will be able to receive and monitor information until the situation is no longer considered an emergency to BVS.
In summary, the RRP will function independently of cell, internet, and electrical. It is activated by the Police Chief or their representative. The information via radio is specific to BVS and therefore timely and more accurate. Together we can build a stronger and safer community with the ERT and RRP.
If you are interested in becoming a licensed amateur radio operator and joining the ERT or need additional information about the RRP or want to sign up to receive a radio in your home, go to ac6ee.org.