TO: ALL WOOD COUNTY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS AMATEURS
ALL NON-WOOD COUNTY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS AMATEURS
FROM: KEN HARRIS WA8LLM
WOOD COUNTY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS INCORPORATED
WOOD COUNTY BULLETIN NR 13.32 DATE: August 11, 2013 SUBJECT: BICYCLES IN EMERGENCIES
Why would you want to use a bicycle in an emergency? There are several reasons. A bicycle may be able to get you to places that you can't get, unless you walk. You may not be able to take your car, truck, or communications vehicle somewhere, and the only way in is on foot, or a bicycle. You can take a bicycle to a lot of places that you can go on foot, but not to all. If you can’t drive to where you need, or have to be, a bicycle can be a great asset.
By using a bicycle it will be faster then walking. Your bicycle can be used to transport a lot of equipment that you may need. Your bicycle can be equipped with baskets or saddle bags that can hold a lot more than what you can carry.
On your bicycle you can carry your communications equipment, batteries, some kind of shelter, food and water, lights, first aid kits, and maybe something to keep you warm.
Your bicycle doesn't need to be a high priced ten speed racing bike. The more complicated your bicycle is, the more things can go wrong. Your emergency bicycle should be a standard bike that has good heavy duty tires. You're not trying to win a race or go mountain biking. You’re wanting something to get you into an emergency location, and back out again.
Ken Harris WA8LLM
WCEC
Wood County WV