In Emergencies
What To Do
When you, a controller, or station participating in the net, intercepts a transmission in which the sender declares himself, or herself, to be in an emergency situation, immediately begin tape recording, if possible, everything that occurs after that initial contact. Additionally, start a log of events and take copious notes; they will be needed later. Immediately note the current time, identity of the station declaring the emergency, their location, and any pertinent details.
If possible, the net controller should conduct all conversations; alternately use a strong relay station. Try to determine if this is an actual emergency and not a hoax.
The net controller should immediately inform the net that an emergency situation is in progress and order all stations to “stand by for possible emergency communications.” Try to determine the best relay station to use, if necessary, and ask him/her, and only him/her, to transmit, unless others are directed to do so.
IN THE CASE OF AN ON-SHORE EMERGENCY:
Direct another station in the net to contact the law enforcement agency in the location of the emergency and relay to them the nature of the emergency. If no relay station is available then ask the calling station to stand by while you do the same.
IN THE CASE OF AN OFF-SHORE EMERGENCY (sailing vessel, maritime vessel, etc.):
Attempt, to the best your abilities, to complete theEmergency Report Form, this will assist the USCG. If the calling station is incoherent, injured, etc. skip this form and wait for the USCG to come on net. But, get as much information as you can from the caller. If the form can be completed, then direct another station in the net to copy the information obtained, relay to him/her as necessary, and direct him/her to contact the U.S. Coast Guard and pass that information to them:
Pacific Area: 1-510-437-3701
Atlantic Area: 1-757-398-6231
Main Ops. Center (Miami) 1-800-874-7561
or 1-800-847-7236
While awaiting instructions from the USCG stay in occasional contact with the calling station assuring them that someone is standing by at all times to help them with their emergency until the situation is resolved. If no other station is on the net, ask the calling station to stand by and you do the above.
IT IS NEITHER NECESSARY NOR DESIRABLE TO CONTACT THE FCC AT ANY POINT.
While the situation is in progress occasionally announce to the net that you are handling emergency traffic and all stations are to stand by to assist but not transmit unless directed to by net control.
WRITE EVERYTHING DOWN WITH TIMESTAMPS, TOO MUCH IS BETTER THAN TOO LITTLE! STAY COOL, TALK IN A NORMAL VOICE, STRIVE TO ASSURE THE CALLING STATION THAT YOU ARE IN CONTROL ON YOUR END AND HELP IS COMING.