Local ham Jeff Straub (KJ4GUF) made a presentation at the club’s April business meeting. As a principal with Leeward Solutions, a provider of emergency management consultancy services, Jeff offered a unique perspective on emergency preparedness and the role of volunteers in preparing for and responding to disasters.
Jeff spoke about where hams fit into emergency preparedness, as one of the key components of backup communications, as trusted partners in situational awareness, and as volunteers with purpose – not just radios. He shared several opportunities for local hams to participate in regional response exercises and healthcare coalition drills. By participating in these exercises, hams can help build a bridge between the different agencies and services that will respond to the next major disaster or emergency.
After a lively question and answer period, he joined us for our customary session of doughnuts and conversation. Many thanks to Jeff for his excellent presentation.