WPV-Ready Communicator
Become an emergency radio operator in your community
Effective communications are often cited by professionals as the greatest logistical problem during emergencies. While cell phones, text messaging and Internet access are convenient communication tools, they are subject to outages during disasters. Two-way radios provide a back-up communications method that can be used to pass critical information when other systems are down.
Within the Woodside Fire Protection District, WPV-Ready Communicators are citizen volunteers trained to use their own two-way radios to communicate with the WPV-CERT Community Emergency Response Team and the Fire District using two-way handheld radios.
They act as communication gateways between residents and WPV-CERT and WFPD during times of emergency to exchange critical information.
WPV-Ready Communicator Training
6:30 PM – 9:30 PM · Fire Station 19
Learn essential two-way radio skills, proper radio techniques, and best practices for clear and concise communication during emergencies.
Contact Us to RegisterWhat the Training Covers
You will learn essential two-way radio skills, proper radio techniques, and best practices for clear and concise communication.
Volunteer Position Description
The WPV-Ready Radio Communicator plays a vital role in emergency preparedness and response by facilitating two-way radio communication between local community members and WPV-CERT and the Woodside Fire Protection District. In times of crisis, clear and reliable communication is essential for coordinating assistance, sharing critical information, and ensuring community safety.
Key Responsibilities
- •Operate two-way radio equipment to relay information between community members and WPV-CERT and professional responders
- •Maintain clear, concise, and accurate communication during emergency situations
- •Participate in training exercises and drills to stay proficient
- •Assist with message logging and documentation
- •Adhere to established radio protocols and procedures
- •Support emergency response efforts by relaying situational updates and requests for assistance
Qualifications & Skills
- •Interest in emergency preparedness and community safety
- •Ability to follow instructions and adhere to communication protocols
- •Clear and effective verbal communication skills
- •Ability to remain calm under pressure
- •Willingness to participate in periodic training sessions
- •Prior radio experience is a plus but not required — training will be provided
- •An amateur radio license is not required
Benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this class/role for?
If you live or work in the areas served by the Woodside Fire Protection District and are interested in joining a volunteer group who assists with emergency radio communications, you can take this class. This is not a general how-to radio class, as we focus specifically on the infrastructure and protocols in place within our fire district. Therefore, the class is not appropriate for those who do not live or work in our community.
How often are practices conducted?
Every Tuesday at 7:30 PM, a brief practice exercise is conducted. These practices allow you to ensure your radio is working, you have radio coverage into the radio system, and you are comfortable using your equipment. Additionally, periodic drills and exercises are scheduled that you can participate in to further practice your communication skills.
Are there participation requirements?
We are developing the program and minimum commitments. You cannot be an effective communicator if you do not regularly practice your radio skills, so we will expect communicators to meet simple minimum participation requirements on an ongoing basis. As practices are conducted once a week, it will be easy to maintain your currency with minimal time commitment.
Do I need to be an amateur radio operator?
No, you do not. You will use radio frequencies (GMRS) that do not require an amateur radio license.
Do I need a license to use the radio?
Yes, however, the license does not require taking any tests. You only need to apply and pay for the license, which is $35 for a 10-year license.
Do I have to purchase equipment?
You will need a compatible GMRS radio. We are selling a pre-programmed radio that you can purchase.
I have an amateur radio license, is this class for me?
The class covers the basic use of hand-held two-way radios utilizing GMRS frequencies. We cover the specific radio channels and systems in place within our Fire District for emergency communications utilizing these GMRS resources and the protocols and procedures for communicating with WPV-CERT and the WFPD. We do not specifically address amateur radio topics, as it is outside the scope of this class/role. Those familiar with two-way radio use and/or have an amateur radio license can learn about the specific GMRS resources (non-amateur) in place within our district.
Interested in Becoming a Communicator?
Get in touch to learn more about the program or register for the next training class.
mark@wpv-cert.org