Training Volunteers

The ARRL Introduction to Emergency Communication Course EC-001 (2011) Training Volunteers Session Two

Reminder • Complete two DHS/FEMA Courses • IS-100.b Introduction to ICS • IS-700 National Incident Management System Http://training.fema.gov/IS/NIMS.asp

Session Two Topic Session 1 – Topics 1,2,3,4,5a,5b Session 2 – Topics 6,7a, 7b,7c, 7d, 8, 9, 10 Session 3 – Topics 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 Session 4 – Topics 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 Session 5 – Topics 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 Session 6 – Topics 28, 29, Summary, Final Exam

Topic 8 – The Net Control Station (NCS)

The NCS • Every formal (directed) net has one • Net Control Station • Net Control Operator • Skills are critical

When do You Need An NCS? • Formal Net • Maintain order • Large amount of stations • Large volume of messages • Keep a log • Informal • Standby • Elevate to formal

Well Trained NCS Operator • Manages routine vs. emergency traffic • Personable “keeps his cool” • Organized – no lost or misdirected messages • Quick to absorb changes

The Right Stuff Clear speaking voice Enunciation/Language Handle stress Tune out distractions Good hearing Write legibly Proper skill set

Transferable Skills • A well designed station • Good basic Amateur Radio operation • Knowledge of radio programming • Frequency selection (HF) • Pile-ups (HF)

Learned Skills • Team Player • Leadership • Record Keeping • Delegation • ICS and NIMS

Practicing Your Skills • Book learning vs. hands-on • Check into local nets • SETs • Public Events • Backup NCS • Don’t wait for an emergency

The NCS Operator is not … • super-human • they need breaks • the scheduler • the recruiter • in charge of the overall communications event

Summary • Any questions before the quiz?

Topic 8 Question • Which is the primary purpose of a “standby” NCS in an informal net? • To make certain that the informal sharing of information flows smoothly • To encourage others to join in the informal conversations • To upgrade the net to formal status if it becomes necessary • To acquire monthly service points

Topic 8 Question • The NCS operator is responsible for which of the following? • Being in charge of the overall communication effort • Being in charge of the net during his shift • Being in charge of net operations beyond his net and shift • Being in charge of frequencies, schedules and recruiting

Topic 8 Question • Which is least desirable time to train new operators? • During an emergency • During a tabletop exercise • During a public service event • During a regularly scheduled training event

Topic 8 Question • Which best describes the primary mission of the NCS? • To train net operators • To understand the Incident Command System (ICS) • To help the net move as much traffic as possible in the least amount of time, accurately and effectively • To tune out distractions and to focus on the job at hand in an often noisy and chaotic environment

Topic 8 Question • Which of the following does not represent “the right stuff” to become a good NCS? • The ability to handle mental and physical stress for long periods • The ability to write legibly • The desire to be seen as important in a response despite lack of training • Above average operating skills

Any Questions Before Starting Topic 9?

Training Volunteers