TO: ALL WEST VIRGINIA ARES MEMBERS (OFFICIAL)
ALL ARES AND NON-ARES AMATEURS ANYWHERE (INFORMATION)
FROM: KEN HARRIS WA8LLM WV SECTION EMERGENCY COORDINATOR
WOOD COUNTY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS INCORPORATED
WV ARES BULLETIN NR 10.13 DATE: March 28, 2010
SUBJECT: TACTICAL CALLS AND THE USE OF.
The use of tactical calls during events such as marathons, walks, runs, and even emergencies have proved to be successful. It helps keep the traffic to a minimum and eliminates the operators from needing to remember who is at a certain location. Remembering only the location, example; mile markers, chase vehicle, water stop number, race control, etc. is needed. If callsigns only are used at each location, a list would need to be compiled with the callsigns of each operator, and what location they are at. Each location would need a copy of the list. If a person moves to another location, or reports to the wrong site, the lists would be in error. When using tactical calls, you never need to remember who is at any particular location.
Still, the use of such calls remains difficult for a few who find it laborious to deviate from normal radio procedures. This is one of those operations that requires use and experience. The thing we should force thru our mind is to only identify with our FCC issued callsign when completing our transmissions. When using Tactical Calls, do not call other stations using their call or yours. Use the tactical calls as set forth before the event, give your report, and then clear by saying your callsign only. By identifying, with your callsign only, at the end of your communication, informs the station called, and those needing to call that you have completed your communication and the frequency is clear. It also complies with FCC Regulations.
Tactical calls are easy, LEGAL, and simplify our operations by allowing us to remember locations and specifics only, and direct our calls accordingly. Changes in operators at any location or vehicle does not change our calls. This allows us to concentrate on what we are there for, and not "What call is at that location?”
(Reprint, with modifications of, Wood County RACES Bulletin NR 93.32, By Duane Jones, N8LDM)
Ken Harris WA8LLM
Wood County WV
WV ARES Section Emergency Coordinator
WV ARES District 3 Emergency Coordinator