Emergency Amateur Radio Communication

During an emergency, such as an earthquake, interface fire or other natural or man-made disasters, amateur radio is used to provide continuity of communications. The communication infrastructure of an area can be heavily compromised during a disaster. Cellular systems as well as land-lines may be overwhelmed, damaged, or even destroyed. This interruption in communications places immense strains on rescue personal, government agencies and volunteer organizations as they try to provide relief to those that are affected. Local radio clubs form emergency groups that practice and train for emergency communications.

Local clubs:

Nanaimo and area:

Coast Emergency Communications Association (CECA)

The CECA Team is one part of the RDN's emergency communication team. CECA provides back-up communication services when traditional communication services are unavailable. Members use various radio systems to provide two-way communications in times of disaster or crisis situations to deliver messages to emergency responders, the RDN Emergency Operations Centre and other associated agencies. An amateur radio license is not required to join this team. For more information visit Coast Emergency Communications Association (CECA) or email at info [at] coastemergency.ca.    

Oceanside area:

The Oceanside Emergency Communications Team (OECT) supports the Emergency Management Oceanside team, in the North RDN. Volunteers licensed through Industry Canada as radio operators provide communications within the region, throughout the province and around the world using voice and digital radio equipment. Messages can be forwarded about the welfare of residents to loved ones outside of the region as well as information about the needs of the region in an emergency. For details visit Oceanside Emergency Communications Team or the Mid Island Amateur Radio Association.