10 EmComm Essentials

In the backpacking world, the ten essentials are considered to be the 10 items that anyone should have before going out into the wilderness. The list has evolved since it was first proposed back in the 1930’s and there is still ongoing debate of what is considered essential. But the ten essentials can be considered those items which you can’t find of easily fashion in the wild and are considered necessary for survival. My favorite interpretation of this list is the updated 10 essentials listed on the REI site:

  1. Navigation
  2. Sun protection
  3. Insulation (extra clothing)
  4. Illumination
  5. First-aid supplies
  6. Fire
  7. Repair kit and tools
  8. Nutrition (extra food)
  9. Hydration (extra water)
  10. Emergency shelter

 

I’ve been searching for a good list of essential items for Emcomm and ARES members to have as the foundation for their go bags or jump kits. Most go bag lists take the ‘kitchen sink’ approach with the expectation of a three day deployment. To carry this much equipment may be a good thing If you where traveling to a disaster area to provide communications as part of a recovery operation, but I think it actually creates a disservice to the average communicator.-Michael KB9VBR

2012 ARES Membership Registration

Its that time of year again!  Time to start thinking about renewing your commitment to Marathon County ARES/RACES.  Every year we require that all members fill out our membership application, which is attached to this article.  One of these PDF’s is editable, so if you have the ability to do a PDF print you can just e-mail your new  application to the leadership team.  Also, just a reminder to review the membership standards for WI ARES/RACES at this link.  Another page you might want to look at is the Home Station Recommendations that WI ARES/RACES has.

Download the Marathon County ARES/RACES registration form here.

The leadership team will begin accepting applications for 2012.

Also was are now required to provide proof of our NIMS certifications.  This is a very easy process.  Simply call (301) 447-1200 and they will help you to get your certificates, in most cases right to your e-mail inbox within minutes.  Please, please get us this information quickly.  If we don’t have this information soon we’ll have to remove you from our roster.  You can send this information to Travis or Michael.