Course Description

We will dive into a brief history of modern communications and how communications systems typically fail looking at several recent disasters and outages to see how we can be better prepared in the future. Students will explore communications options available to individuals and groups and learn to assess what might be best for their application. We will work our way through basic communications planning for individuals and families from the perspective local or regional disasters, and backcountry travelers.  Since this class will focus heavily on radio communications we will discuss basic radio operation, antenna systems, equipment selection, and briefly look at some more advanced communications techniques that you may want to leverage to fill your needs. Last but not least we will take a brief look at emergency power for communications as our gear doesn’t run on positive thoughts.  

No prior radio or communications experience is needed. Students should leave with a basic understanding of how communications systems work, communications terminology, and what options they want to pursue further. Students should be prepared to take lots of notes as we will be covering lot of material quickly. Everyone should consider who they would need to communicate with during an emergency or when out exploring as there will be time to ask questions and discuss some individual scenarios during class. 

Required Gear -

• Notebook

• Water, lunch, and snacks

• Your radio if you have one. If not, wait until after the class to buy one

• Clothing appropriate for season. Outdoor classroom

Other Information:

• Other dates available upon group request

• Age: 12+ (under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult)

• Class size limit: 16

• Classes start at 9:00 am and ends at 5:00 pm

• Meetup location - Harrison Branch Recreation Area, Tallassee, TN (16S GE 63733 38048)

• Please read the BPO Policies and FAQs before purchasing.