Ojai Valley CERT

2011 CERT Invitational (Burbank, CA)

2011-06-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

The Burbank Fire Department cordially welcomes your team to compete in the 2011 CERT Invitational.

This September 17, ten teams will execute high-intensity skills challenges based on the Citizen Corps CERT curricula. In this second-annual event, a mix of municipal and industry teams will compete to achieve the highest cumulative score over six distinctive stations:

Fire Suppression
Victim Triage and Casualty Collection Area
Search and Rescue Operations
Cribbing and Victim Extrication
Disaster Medical Operationshttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
CERT comprehensive written exam

Each station is designed for six team members. Overall team size may range between a minimum of six (6) and a maximum of ten (10). All competing teams are required to provide an additional person that will be assigned to the overall event to assist with competition administration and logistics. All competing members are required to provide their own Personal Protective Equipment, though all operational materials will be furnished at each station.

General registration is now open and is handled online through the Eventbrite service:
2011invitational.eventbrite.com

Registration will remain open until all positions are filled. There is an entry fee of $50.00 for CERT teams from a city or county agency; $100.00 for business/industry ERT teams.

Ticket categories on registration page:

Municipal CERT Team
Business/Industry Team

Teams may pay by credit card or check. There is a nominal service fee charged by the registration website for credit card transactions. If your organization chooses to pay by check, when registering please click "show other payment options" under the "order now" button and a new button "pay offline" will appear. Click this option. Teams that withdraw before July 31, 2011 will be given a refund.

Additional information and regulations can be found at:
BurbankFireCorps.org/CERT_Invitational

We'll see you in September!

Erik Day
2011 CERT Invitational Coordinator

competition@burbankfirecorps.org
http://www.burbankfirecorps.org/CERT_Invitational/
www.ci.burbank.ca.us

Red Cross Class - Psychological First Aid

2011-06-26T17:28:00.001-07:00

The Red Cross is offering a Psychological First Aid class - a disaster services class.

The class is free and there is no pre-requisite and is open to all.

It will run from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, July 9th immediately following the regular monthly Ojai Red Cross Meeting -- Arc Enrichment Center, 210 Canada Street, Ojai.

To sign up contact Kris Mannale at 987 1514 ext 320, or emailing him at mannalek@usa.redcross.org

Provide Kris with your address and phone number as he needs that for the signup registration process.

"Feeling Safe, Being Safe" Training (by Area Board 9)

2011-02-20T14:44:00.000-08:00

Please see the attached flyer for an upcoming emergency preparedness training scheduled for Saturday, March 12, in Ojai.

How to attend a make-up CERT class for credit

2011-02-06T12:29:00.000-08:00

Oftentimes, it's not possible to attend every session with your primary class and CERT instructor. As there are ongoing CERT classes held throughout the County, it's important to make efforts to complete your training by attending makeup classes.

This easy procedure should be followed when attending another CERT class to makeup hours for credit towards graduation - especially when it will be with a different instructor.

1. Locate another class - ask your current instructor for suggestions or go to County CERT Web-site at: http://fire.countyofventura.org/Community/CERT/CERTClassSchedule/tabid/98/Default.aspx

2. Contact makeup class instructor and confirm OK to attend -- this is not a requirement, but a good suggestion, so they know you're attending.

3. Print out this makeup form and take with you to class - http://fire.countyofventura.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=jZ%2flB39dHW0%3d&tabid=98

4. Introduce yourself upon arrival at class.

5. Ensure you have makeup instructor fill out bottom of form

6. Return makeup form to your primary CERT instructor to be processed for credit

New! CERT Class begins on Tuesday, March 15th

2011-02-06T09:24:00.000-08:00

Ojai Valley CERT is pleased to announce a new CERT Training that begins in March. It is important this program is maintained with active community interest. Please clear your calendar and register, or complete any make-up classes and graduate.

• Ojai Valley Community Emergency Response Team course!
*Register now!* Classes are open to all Ojai Valley and North Coast residents at least 18 years old or older and are free of charge. Bilingual participants are especially welcome and needed! Those in need of makeup classes to complete their CERT training are particularly encouraged to take part. Upon graduation, all CERT volunteers are provided a pack of personal protective equipment (hard hat, gloves, flash light, etc) for emergency response. To register, call (805) 654-2703, the office of Ventura County District 1 Supervisor Steve Bennett, sponsor of the training, and speak with Cindy Cantle or Brian Brennan. Thanks!
1) Tues, March 15, 2011, 6:30-9pm
2) Tues, March 22, 2011, 6:30-9pm
3) Tues, March 29, 2011, 6:30-9pm
4) Tues, April 5, 2011, 6:30-9pm
5) Tues, April 12, 2011, 6:30-9pm
6) Tues, April 19, 2011, 6:30-9pm
7) Graduation drill date to be determined by the class.
Oak View Park & Resource Center (OVPARC), 555 Mahoney Ave, Oak View
For more info or to register, call Cindy Cantle or Brian Brennan at (805) 654-2703.

• City of Ventura Community Emergency Response Team course!
Classes are open to all City of Ventura residents at least 18 years old or older and are free of charge. Bilingual participants are especially welcome and needed! Those in need of makeup classes to complete their CERT training are particularly encouraged to take part. Upon graduation, all CERT volunteers are provided a pack of personal protective equipment (hard hat, gloves, flash light, etc) for emergency response. For more info or to register, contact Heidi Caldwell: (805)658-4717 or . Thanks!
1) Wed, March 16, 2011, 6:30-9pm
2) Wed, March 23, 2011, 6:30-9pm
3) Wed, March 30, 2011, 6:30-9pm
4) Wed, April 6, 2011, 6:30-9pm
5) Wed, April 13, 2011, 6:30-9pm
6) Wed, April 20, 2011, 6:30-9pm
7) Graduation drill date to be determined by the class.
Police/Fire Headquarters, 1425 Dowell Dr, Ventura
For more info or to register, contact Heidi Caldwell: (805)658-4717 or hacaldwell@cityofventura.net

NOTE: Both the Ojai and Ventura classes will combine together for the final CERT Graduation exercise -- great way to network and gives an opportunity for former CERT Graduates to assist & support in a larger scale training event.

Note: The Ojai and Ventura classes are purposely staggered next to each other, so you can attend a make-up session at the other location, if needed.

The complete Ventura County CERT training calendar is at:
http://fire.countyofventura.org/Community/CERT/CERTClassSchedule/tabid/98/Default.aspx

Webinars for Neighborhood Tabletop Exercises

2010-12-12T14:25:00.000-08:00

I haven't gone through one of these programs yet, but it looks to be very promising. Please take a look at the links.

What: Webinars for Neighborhood Tabletop Exercises January - June 2011.
Who: Recommended for CERT teams/communities or other spontaneous emergency volunteers (recommended that at least 3 people/group register & participate simultaneously).

Links:
http://www.drc-group.com/project/footprint.html

http://www.drc-group.com/library/exercise/formidable/Formidable-Neighborhood-ExerciseFlyer.pdf

* Free to participate
* Several scenarios to consider: earthquake, flood, hurricane, influenza pandemic, tornado, and wildfire.
* May work best if a group is participating together in one location.

Ojai Day 2010 - Pics

2010-10-26T23:21:00.000-07:00

Ojai Day 2010 was supported well with volunteers from Ojai Valley CERT, Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club and American Red Cross (Ojai).

Ham Radio Licensing in Ojai (11/13/10)

2010-10-25T21:17:00.001-07:00

2010 CERT Expo - Registration Open for Nov 6th

2010-10-15T18:30:00.001-07:00

The 2010 CERT Expo (Saturday, November 6th - all day) is now open for registration.

Please register by going to: http://fire.countyofventura.org/cert

For questions, or to volunteer, contact your local CERT Coordinator or Ventura County Fire Department CERT Program Administrator at 805-389-9710

Ventura County CERT Council upcoming meeting (Oct 26th)

2010-10-15T18:23:00.000-07:00

Please set aside October 26th from 7:00PM to 8:30PM.

The National Weather Service (NWS) will offer Weather-spotting training to interested CERT volunteers.

See flier below:

2010 Ojai OK! Drill - Various Pics

2010-09-24T21:47:00.001-07:00

Picture take by Ray Smith (KI6VED)at Sarzotti park, at the completion of the OK drill.

Left to right: Virginia Rasch (KJ6BXX), Diana Bailey KI6VCN, Lou Torres, Jade Smith KI6VFQ, Jake Bailey KI6VCO

Lynn Haag standing out Vons Supermarket handing out signs.

Glenda making passionate delivery to Rotary Club

2010-09-14T22:52:00.001-07:00

This is Glenda giving a spirited presentation to Rotary Club Ojai West about upcoming Ojai OK! Drill.

Check out Ojai Valley News - Fri 9/10, page 2

2010-09-11T00:49:00.000-07:00

Novel way of advertising OK! Drill

2010-09-11T00:25:00.000-07:00

This is one idea that Paul in Arbolada/Foothill is doing to advertise the OK! Drill.

We live on a street that has a lot of walkers so I put out this display and
have given away over 25 signs.

Creating Vigilant, Prepared, Resilient Communities for Homeland Security

2010-09-10T22:42:00.001-07:00

This information sent to Ojai from Tom Fischer - Antelope Valley CERT.

The Regional Community Policing Institute-California and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department CERT Program is hosting the following Free Training.

Creating Vigilant, Prepared, Resilient Communities for
Homeland Security

October 5 – 6, 2010 (Tuesday & Wednesday)
8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
at the Norwalk Arts and Sports Complex
13000 Clarkdale Avenue, Norwalk, California 90650

Only with strong partnerships, enhanced networking capabilities, and organized
community infrastructures can United States' communities become vigilant,
prepared, and resilient in the war on terrorism and other events of national
significance. Whether security threats involve acts of terrorism or natural or
man-made disasters, a community's ability to become vigilant, prepared, and
resilient depends upon the efforts/partnerships of law enforcement,
governmental and non-governmental organizations, community members, and
tribal members who are adequately trained and equipped. With the continued
threat of terrorist attacks and other events of national significance, now more
than ever, it is incumbent on every U.S. citizen to not become a burden in times
of crisis.
This two-day course is designed to provide individuals, organizations,
communities, businesses, schools and public safety agencies with awarenesslevel
information that leads to creating vigilant, prepared, and resilient
communities for homeland security and events of national significance. This
interactive course includes classroom instruction, problem-based learning
strategies, and practical hands-on activities in topics that include:

The components of homeland security preparedness and response,
including terrorism and fear considerations
The elements of group dynamics, including team building, leadership
principles, and conflict resolution
Community responsibility and action planning

Please register at http://www.rcpi-ca.org/classreg/. For questions, contact the
Regional Community Policing Institute at 1-800-659-8985. There is no fee to
attend this course.

CalTrans Signs advertising Ojai OK! Drill

2010-09-08T10:18:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Ojai's Chief of Police Capt Chris Dunn, we have one of the best forms of advertising for the upcoming Ojai OK! Drill -- September 15th at 7PM.

For the second year in a row, two CalTrans Signs have been positioned at the foot of the Dennison Grade near Carne Road and the other by Casitas as Hwy 33 down-steps to 45 MPH.

The sign is advertising tuning to AM1610, so please do that for more information.

Contribute ideas to DHS on Preparedness

2010-08-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

http://preparedness.ideascale.com/

3rd Annual Ojai OK! Drill - Weds Sept 15th 7PM

2010-08-29T17:51:00.000-07:00

The 3rd Annual Ojai OK! Drill is happening this year on Wednesday, Sept 15th at 7PM.

Ojai Valley CERT will be distributing yellow OK Signs in the weeks leading up to the drill. You can also get the signs from the Ojai Library and Ojai Valley Fire Stations. Note: If you're having difficulties finding a sign, email to ojaivalleycert@gmail.com.

We're asking Citizens to review the Emergency Preparedness Information on the reverse side and then post the sign in a street-facing window at 7PM. Please leave the sign up overnight.

Ojai Valley CERT and various other groups (Ham Radio, Red Cross) will search throughout the Ojai Valley to locate and count signs.

The objective is to utilize Incident Command Procedures and Ham Radio Operators to aggregate all counts and roll-up the results to the Ojai EOC (Emergency Operations Center at Ojai Police Department)within 1 hour. We look forward to collaborating this year with other CERT Groups within the County and out-of-state.

Please go to http://okdrill.org for more details.

Ojai Valley CERT wins a prize from HealthyCityVC

2010-08-15T17:48:00.000-07:00

I submitted, on behalf of Ojai Valley CERT, to HealthyCity (www.healthycityvc.org) and won!!! Check out the web-site. This is a great tool for sharing your story and using map overlays to create a visual picture of your project's jurisdiction.

Share and Connect!

Congratulations to the winners of our Tell My Story drawing! Like many of you out there, they have a story to share about the great work they are doing - from building community collaboratives that aim to improve health outcomes to initiatives that tackle statewide issues. Healthy City will provide one-on-one technical assistance to these winning organizations to help them tell their story in the Share & Connect room:

California WALKS - a project that works statewide to improve pedestrian safety by mentoring local groups and working to educate, encourage and empower community residents by providing community-based pedestrian safety skill building and advocacy workshops.

Ojai OK! Drill - a dynamic Communications exercise held annually in the Ojai Valley for Emergency Preparedness.

The South LA Best Babies Collaborative - a collaborative of five agencies, The SLABBC provides Case Management, Health Education and Social Support groups for low-income pregnant and parenting women.

How do I create a Story?
It's not too late for you to tell YOUR story. In our last Healthy City E-blast, we announced the newly available technology on HealthyCity.org that enables you to share your organization's story in a dynamic and visual way to encourage action and strengthen advocacy efforts. You can create a story that describes your project or initiative using any or all of the following elements:

- PDFs and reports
- Maps
- Charts
- Videos, Photo
- Links to resources
- Message boards...and more!

To help get you started...

The Healthy City User Guide: Refer to the updated Healthy City User Guide for step-by-step instructions on telling your story.

Hands-on Training: If you're in the Los Angeles area, attend our Advanced hands-on training at The California Endowment on August 20th from 9:30 am - 2 pm. To register, email SUlrickson@advanceproj.org . Check out a full description of the training session and see other opportunities on our new Training Calendar!

Recorded Webinars: Watch and listen to our recorded webinars. View the Introductory Training webinar if you're just getting started, then check out the Advanced Training webinar and Map like the wind!

Fun pictures from 2008 Golden Guardian Exercise

2010-08-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

Anne's pet Chihuahua (Izzy) was officially inducted into Red Cross & CERT.

Izzy listening to instructions from the IC (Anne) -- Managing by Objectives:

Izzy performing an end-to-end check on a victim.

Izzy doing one last in-building search before clearing the building.

Izzy in standard canine Search & Rescue PPE (Personal/Pet Protective Equipment):

Heat Illness information

2010-07-29T22:39:00.000-07:00

Good information to know for the hotter months

Pics from Ojai July 4th Parade

2010-07-18T13:02:00.000-07:00

All pictures courtesy of Stephen Adams - http://www.stephenadamsphoto.com/

Field Day 2010 - June 26th & 27th (Reagan Library)

2010-06-25T16:16:00.000-07:00

Field Day 2010: Emergency Communication Drill To Be Held 26-27 June 2010

The Ventura Co. Amateur Radio Society (VCARS) will be joined by 5 other local amateur radio clubs to conduct annual Emergency Communications Drills during the American Radio Relay League's "Field Day 2010" event on the Grounds of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum, Simi Valley, CA. Approximately 100 amateur radio operators will operate approximately 14 communications stations under emergency conditions. Solar power and batteries will power all transceivers. In addition to using voice, Morse Code, and data transmissions, an amateur radio TV station will be featured, and an amateur radio satellite ground station will be used to communicate with other Field Day 2010 groups throughout North America. "Ham Radio Works When Other Systems Don't"

VCARS will be joined by the Amgen Amateur Radio Club (AARC), Conejo Valley Amateur Radio Club (VCARC), Hollywood Hills QRP Contest Club (HHQCC), Simi Settlers Amateur Radio Club (SSARC), and the Ventura Co. Amateur Radio Club (VCARC) to conduct operations from 11 A.M. Saturday June 26th, 2010 until 11 A.M. Sunday, June 27th.

This marks the 10th consecutive year for VCARS to conduct Field Day operations from the Grounds of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum.

The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) >>>>>>www.arrl.org<<<<< sponsors the annual nationwide Field Day to provide Emergency Communications Training & Practice for Amateur Radio Clubs and other groups of Radio Amateurs and to provide public awareness of Amateur Radio. More than 35,000 amateur radio operators (hams) will participate in Field Day 2010.

Amateur Radio "Special Events Callsign" "N6R" has been assigned by the Federal Communications Commission, for this event. "N6R" honors the lives of President Ronald and Mrs. Nancy Reagan.

Scouts from Boy Scout Troop #155 will also attend Field Day at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum to conduct two-way amateur radio communications requirements to complete their "Radio Merit Badge" course. Please also refer to >>>>www.qrz.com/db/n6r<<<< for additional details and information.

A special feature of the Public Information Booth will be the Get On The Air (G.O.T.A.) Station to demonstrate amateur radio use and to let the general public to speak or use a digital (PSK) keyboard to talk with other amateur radio operators over the airwaves. PSK is a specialized way to transmit which enables the operator to send 'text-like messages' over thousands of miles without relying upon commercial cellphone service.

Amateur Radio’s very existence is internationally mandated by the International Telecommunications Union and is an integral part of the Communications Plans of the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (F.E.M.A.), and Ventura County Office of Emergency Services (O.E.S.). Even in today’s technological, cell phone, and e-mail oriented society, Amateur Radio Operators continue to provide both short and long distance emergency communications services during the loss of normal electric power, breakdown of normal cellular telephone networks, or failure of other local, state, & Federal communication services and during area emergencies and other augmentation needs. Many of our Amateur Radio Operators are current members of the Ventura Co. Auxiliary Communications Service (A.C.S.) which provides communications equipment and operators for local hospitals, Emergency Operations Centers (E.O.Cs.), colleges, and other facilities.

The public is invited to attend.

NOTE: News media personnel and V.I.P. guests shall check-in at the Public Information Booth located just outside the East entrance of the Library Quadrangle, immediately upon arrival for a briefing and tour of the Field Day stations. This is needed for safety and coordination concerns. Detailed Media/ V.I.P. briefing packets will be provided.

Regards,

Peter Heins,
Ventura Co. Amateur Radio Society (VCARS) P.I.O.
806.796.6693 cell n6ze@aol.com

2010-06-07T22:14:00.000-07:00

Checkout this really good web-site which teaches you all the things you can do to dramatically increase the chances of your home surviving a Wildfire.

Sponsored by CalFire.

Amateur Radio Newsline Web-site

2010-06-07T22:12:00.000-07:00

Amateur Radio Newsline™ is a free service to the amateur radio community. It is entirely supported by voluntary donations from individual amateurs and amateur radio clubs.

Checkout the link at Amateur Radio Newsline

Shakeout Drill 2010 - 10/21/10 at 10:21AM

2010-06-07T21:53:00.000-07:00

I just completed re-registering Ojai Valley CERT for the upcoming Great California Shakeout Drill.

Please check out this web-site www.shakeout.org and prepare to "Drop, Cover and Hold-on" on October 21st, 2010 at 10:21 a.m

What you didn't know about Alzheimer's Disease - Seminar

2010-05-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

The City of Santa Paula Police Department & Santa Paula Citizens Patrol Unit is sponsoring a seminar entitled, "What you didn't know about Alzeimer's Disease"

Kimberly R. Kelly, Founder and Executive Director of "Project far From Home" will present a Free seminar at The Santa Paula High School Auditorium for personnel associated with searching and caring for Alzheimer's patients.

Date: Saturday, May 29th 2010
Check-in Time: 8AM to 8:45AM (Refreshments)
Seminar Time: 9AM to Noon (Free Seminar)
Location: Santa Paula High School Auditorium
404 N. 6th Street, Santa Paula, CA 93060 (Note: 5th Street Entrance off Santa Paula St leads to the Auditorium

Please contact event coordinator: Beverly Samantha Frady
Citizens Patrol Volunteer @ 805-525-7646 or 805-754-9689
Email: samantha.0103@yahoo.com

Project Far From Home

ESRI picking up on our OK Sign

2010-05-23T12:48:00.000-07:00

Was just reviewing the ESRI ArcGIS site and came across this link.

Even the font of the "OK" looks familiar.

Note: Ojai Valley CERT will be developing various maps using our new Depiction Mapping Software. The plan is to also integrate into ESRI's systems.

http://blogs.esri.com/Dev/photos/publicsafety/images/9988/original.aspx

Terrorism Awareness Training March 12, 2010

2010-03-02T23:01:00.000-08:00

ICS 300/400 Training in Ventura - April 5-8, 2010

2010-03-02T22:58:00.001-08:00

Ojai Valley CERT (Oak View) hosting guest speaker - Jolene Hoffman

2010-02-28T17:18:00.000-08:00

This Monday, March 1, will be the Oak View CERT meeting with Jolene Hoffman, Director of the Ojai Humane Society. She will be speaking to us about "How to be Prepared For Your Pets During an Emergency". Bring yourself, friends or family who might be interested in this subject.

Where: Oak View Park and Resource Center,
555 Mahoney Avenue
Multi-Purpose Room
When: March 1 from 7 - 8PM

There will be a short meeting, for those who are interested, on an update about the triage kit, etc. after the presentation by Jolene Hoffman.

Congratulations to the latest graduating CERT class which occurred today. They were all great sports in participating during the rainy weather.

Welcome to the Oak View CERT!
Pam Edwards
Joanne Roberts
Audrey Herbison
Dana DeYoung

See you there.

Kathy Miller
Oak View CERT Coordinator
KI6VDI

CERT Training Available in Ventura Harbor (April/May 2010)

2010-02-17T21:24:00.000-08:00

There will be a CERT Class in Ventura Harbor in April or May. If you are missing one or more sessions from previous CERT Trainings, you are welcome to attend just those sessions or all the sessions.

You will be contacted for a date and time of classes. Please email Scott Miller (smiller@venturaharbor.com). You might also email Scott your preference as to which night of the week is best for you. Classes usually begin at 6:30pm for 3 hrs.

Residents and employees/business owners within Ventura Harbor will be given priority placement in the class if more sign up than there are spaces

We appreciate the efforts of Harbormaster Scott Miller and Fire Marshall Brian Clark for making this possible.

Lynn Mikelatos

Move over Law now in California

2010-02-01T19:25:00.000-08:00

Magnitude 6.5 earthquake rattles Northern California - latimes.com

2010-01-09T22:11:00.001-08:00

Magnitude 6.5 earthquake rattles Northern California - latimes.com

Posted using ShareThis

Ventura County Announces Recipients of the 2009 Emergency Planning Council Awards

2009-12-20T11:24:00.000-08:00

The Ventura County Emergency Planning Council will honor ten organizations and two individuals for their contribution to emergency services in 2009 on Thursday, December 10, 2009. The presentation of awards will be held at 9:00 a.m., during the quarterly Emergency Planning Council Meeting, at the Ventura County Government Center, Hall of Justice, Pacific Conference Room, 800 South Victoria Avenue, Ventura, CA.

Best Emergency Preparedness Training – Countywide CERT Training and CERT Refresher Training – Ventura County Fire Department

Best Emergency Community Program – Countywide CERT Training – Ventura County Fire Department

Here's the full story from Fillmore Gazette

Ham Radio Rapid Response equipment show-and-tell

2009-12-19T16:50:00.000-08:00

Tom Sullivan (W8MKL) gave a very informative presentation during today's Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club Monthly Meeting -- 8AM, Third Wednesday at Holy Cross Pre-School on Maricopa Highway. The public are always welcome.

Tom is part of the Ventura County Auxiliary Communication Service (VCACS) Rapid Response Team -- this means that he is ready to roll at a moment's notice with a bevy of radio communications equipment to deploy on-site where needed.

In this picture you can see the truck's wheel holding in place an extensible pole with various antenna attached - Tri-band high-gain, directional antenna, High Frequency Buddipole. Upon arriving on-site, this antenna system can be assembled in less than 30 minutes. Of course, you can also see the antenna farm on the truck's cab which is permanently mounted.

In this picture you can see a custom-built storage unit which holds the various pieces of communications equipment, with the capability of sliding out components if needing separately.

Components include:

- Icom IC-706 (High Frequency Radio) for long-distance voice communications
- Pactor III modem (connected to Icom) for sending long distance packet (text) traffic.
- Alinco DR-135 (2 Meter for both voice traffic and local packet (text) traffic)
- Kantronics KPC-3 (TNC modem) - similar concept as Pactor, but local communications
- Radio Shack 25 AMP power supply if able to plug in - otherwise on deep-cycle batts
- Laptop for using Packet Software.

Paul (KI6USA)

H1N1 Clinic was a success in Ojai

2009-12-19T16:21:00.000-08:00

The Ojai Valley Emergency Response Team Triad (CERT, Ham Radio and Red Cross) were in full force at the recent Ojai H1N1 Clinic.

Over 20 Ojai Valley CERT members responded, primarily managing vehicle traffic in the Parking Lot (brrr...), guiding cars to correct parking lots (there were several events that evenng), and ensuring pedestrians could enter/leave the clinic safely. CERT also volunteered inside the clinic providing crowd control and other services.

Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club assisted by programming the AM 1610 Radio Station with pertinent information about the clinic, including securing flashing road signs on Highway 33/150.

American Red Cross were kept busy assisting with various paperwork processing for over 860 vaccinees throughout the day.

Ventura County Public Health Staff were very impressed with the volunteer turnout, including the relatively large response from those seeking vaccinations.

(Crowd Shot)

(Volunteer Command Post - we followed Incident Command System Structure and all CERT members carried two-way radios).

(CERT members with bright ANSI vests)

Mass Vaccination Clinic (H1N1) comes to Ojai

2009-12-03T21:35:00.000-08:00

Ojai Valley CERT Graduates:

Details for Mass Vaccination Clinic (H1N1):

Overview: This is a great opportunity for Ojai Valley CERT to be recognized as a viable pool of volunteer talent to be called upon when requested by County agencies

Event: Mass Vaccination Clinic (H1N1)

Requesting Agency: Ventura County Public Health Department requests Ojai Valley CERT to provide volunteer assistance (crowd control, parking lot management, other assignments as needed)

Location: Ojai Nordhoff High School, 1401 Maricopa Highway, Ojai, CA.

Date: Tuesday, December 8

Time: Covering shifts between 1PM and 9PM (ideally working 3 to 4 hour shift). Note: If only available for a smaller shift, still consider volunteering.

Attire: CERT Vest, Long Sleeved CERT Shirt (if available), Flashlight. No need for full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

ICS: This event will follow the Incident Command System - you will only be receiving specific instructions from Ken Williams or his CERT IC replacement.

Web-Site: Additional information from Ventura County Public Health on H1N1 --http://www.vchca.org/h1n1

If interested in volunteering, please email Ken Williams (Designated Ojai Valley CERT Incident Commander) at miramontecert@roadrunner.com. Provide your name, contact number and hours available.

Review of the Icom IC-V8-SPORT (2M Ham Radio)

2009-11-29T19:44:00.000-08:00

For those looking for an inexpensive 2M Ham Radio for around $100 new, please take a look at the information provided by Tim Shates (K6CTS)

Review of the Icom IC-V8-SPORT

This 2-meter, handheld transceiver could be the ideal radio for the newly minted ham coming from CERT and interested primarily in emergency communications. Currently available at AES for only $99 (http://www.aesham.com/index.html), this rugged radio is very affordable. Running on low power it is ideal for local area CERT operation using assigned simplex frequencies.

As to performance, we used it at the 2009 Oxnard High School Band Competition and it exceeded our expectations. On low power (0.5W) it easily hit the Olivas Park repeater, and it ran all day on six AA batteries. Out of the box it was first tested on high power (5.5W) and from the Pacific Palisades coast easily hit the CARA repeater (http://www.cara.nu) on Catalina Island over 20 miles away.

Quality, simplicity, anywhere Tough construction. The green polycarbonate front panel and aluminum die-cast chassis will provide years of durability. The 54×132×35 mm compact ergonomic body is easy for carrying anywhere. 16 button keypad for easy-to-access functions The function guidance is labeled on the 16 buttons. So you can easily manage all of the functions equipped on the IC-V8 by pushing Function key and shortcut keys. In addition, a channel number or an operating frequency can be entered from the keypad directly. Channel selection, volume, squelch and subaudible tones can be assigned to the up/down switches or rotary selector at your convenience. Set mode and initial set mode By adapting set mode and initial set mode menu, set mode allows you to arrange often-used menus easily and quickly. 5-character alphanumeric display Letters and numeral character names provide easy recognition of each channel. S-meter, keylock, tone and duplex setting icons show various operating status at glance. Up to 100 often used channels can be stored into the memory with channel name, tone and duplex setting. Furthermore, one call channel provides one touch channel access for a frequently used channel. CTCSS and DTCS operation standard 50 CTCSS and 38 DTCS tone squelch operation codes (encoder and decoder) provide quiet standby and allows you repeater access.

CERT class starts in January, 2010

2009-11-29T16:23:00.000-08:00

I'm pleased to announce that CERT Training will be offered - sponsored by Ventura County District 1 Supervisor Steve Bennett - this coming January, 2010 in The Ojai Valley.

It is important to fully seize this opportunity by having residents (minimum 18 years old) register and attend classes. This is also a great opportunity for those that are needing make-up classes to complete the training.

The program is covered over 6 Tuesday evenings and 1 Saturday AM. Times and dates are: 6:30PM to 9PM on January 19th, 26th and February 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and concluding with a Graduation Exercise on Saturday 27th from 9AM to noon.

Location is the Oak View Park and Resource Center -- 555 Mahoney Ave, Oak View.

Please register by calling Cindy Cantle at (805) 654-2703.

Ojai OK! Drill 2009 Results

2009-11-29T15:43:00.000-08:00

Here are the results of the Ojai OK! Drill (performed on October 14th, 2009).

This is a link to my post on the OK Drill Web-site.

Ojai Valley News - Best of Ojai 2009 Award

2009-11-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

It was a nice surprise to see this year's Ojai Valley News "Best of Ojai" 2009 -- awarded "Best Volunteer".

While humbled, I would be remiss to accept the award solely, as my efforts are only realized through the great teamwork I enjoy within the Ojai Valley Emergency Response Team (Collaboration of Ojai Valley CERT, Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club and American Red Cross).

Ojai Valley CERT has made great strides in the last couple years in its participant growth, leadership and organization.

Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club has had some impressive growth in the last year and the Ham Operators continue to show a level of professional concern and response within their duties.

The Ojai Team of the American Red Cross is a fun group to work with and are always there to assist (Ojai OK! Drill) and have participated together in events (July 4th Parade, Ojai Day, etc).

It's really awe inspiring to work hand-in-hand with three separate organizations that have strategically different and distinct skill-sets and roles, yet can all mutually work together in times of need.

Thank you to the Ojai Valley News and those citizens that voted -- I accept the award on behalf of OVERT (Ojai Valley Emergency Response Team).

20091016 OVN Article on OK Drill and Shakeout

2009-10-16T01:02:00.000-07:00

Article about Ojai OK! Drill in Blog - In Case of Emergency Blog

2009-10-13T17:52:00.000-07:00

My new friend in the Blogosphere (John Solomon), is the author of the popular Blog -- InCaseOfEmergencyBlog.com

He recently wrote an article that does a great job summarizing what the Ojai OK! Drill is all about.

Please go to: http://incaseofemergencyblog.com/2009/10/08/ojai-ok-youre-ok-so-communitys-ok-readiness-drill-involves-public-cert-responders/

Ojai Day - Saturday October 17th - requestng assistance

2009-10-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

Ojai Day is on Saturday, Octboer 17th in Libbey Park.

We are looking for CERT Graduates to assist with managing the booth.

Please sign-up here:

http://ojaiday20091017.eventbrite.com

Registration reminder for Certainly CERT

2009-10-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

Operation Certainly CERT (Ventura County CERT Refresher) is just around the corner -- Saturday, November 7th (all day).

Everyone needs to make sure you go to the following link to register. Print out the release forms for photo and liability and bring completed forms with you.

Operation Certainly CERT

CERT Volunteers needed for Ojai Day -- October 17th, 2009

2009-09-18T21:51:00.000-07:00

Mid October is going to be a busy month...

October 14th at 7PM is Ojai OK! Drill -- http://okdrill.org

October 15th at 10:15AM is Great American Shakeout -- http://shakeout.org

October 17th all day is Ojai Day -- http://www.ojaiday.com/index.htm

The Ojai Valley Triad (CERT, Ham Radio and Red Cross) are going to be grouped together for this event.

We are looking for CERT Grads to be willing to spend some time at the booth talking about CERT, and also assisting with Ham Radio and Red Cross.

Please email ojaivalleycert@gmail.com to let me know your availability.

Thanks.

Paul

New SpringWidget

2009-09-12T16:49:00.001-07:00

Get this widget!

Radio Ojai Interview on Ojai OK Drill (9/11/09)

2009-09-12T16:39:00.000-07:00

Lisa Snider interviewed Paul Garth on the upcoming Ojai OK Drill.

http://radioojai.com/2009/09/11/lisa-interviews-paul-garth-of-the-ojai-ok-drill.aspx

Inciweb - Incident Information System

2009-09-03T23:11:00.000-07:00

InciWeb is an interagency all-risk incident information management system. The system was developed with two primary missions:

1. Provide the public a single source of incident related information
2. Provide a standardized reporting tool for the Public Affairs community

A number of supporting systems automate the delivery of incident information to remote sources. This ensures that the information regarding active incidents is consistent, and the delivery is timely.

Please visit this very informative site at: http://www.inciweb.org/

Certainly CERT Refresher Training - Sign-up!!!

2009-09-02T23:11:00.000-07:00

Certainly CERT Refresher Training

Operation Certainly CERT, our first ever countywide CERT drill, will put 250 Ventura County CERT (including Ojai Valley CERT) members to the test in a full day series of exercises in each of the 4 CERT core competencies: fire suppression; search and rescue; simple triage; and rapid treatment. Several Ojai Valley CERT members have put a considerable amount of effort into the planning of this drill being held by Ventura County. I will be in charge of the "Cribbing & Lifting" exercise and am looking forward to seeing a great turnout.

Register *NOW* to reserve your place in this unprecedented event slated for Saturday, November 7, 2009, at the Ventura County Fire Department Headquarters Training Facility at the Camarillo Airport.

Pre-registration for the first 20 Ojai Valley CERT members is open *NOW* on the VCFD/CERT web page:
http://fire.countyofventura.org/certregistration/

Participation will be limited to the first 250 people. To help equalize regional participation, each of the 10 Ventura County CERT regions will be allowed time *NOW* to pre-register up to 20 local participants.

Once our alotted 20 Ojai Valley slots are filled, anyone else who wants to take part will be invited to apply again beginning August 31, when registration will be open to general CERT membership on a first- come- first- served basis to fill any remaining spaces.

Anyone wishing to volunteer can register at any time.

A liability waiver and photo release forms will accompany registration. Please print, sign, and bring them with you to check-in the morning of the event. Instructional handouts, schedule, and a map will also be available from the site soon.

For more information, call Alexander (389-9722) or Ramona Armijo (910-9585) of Ventura County CERT.

Register *NOW* on the VCFD/CERT web page:
http://fire.countyofventura.org/certregistration/

2009 Shakeout Exercise - 10/15 at 10:15AM

2009-08-31T22:57:00.000-07:00

45 Days to the 2009 ShakeOut!

At 10:15 a.m. on October 15, 2009, millions of Californians will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in The Great California ShakeOut, the largest earthquake drill ever!

September is National Preparedness Month, and you'll be hearing from many organizations about how to update your disaster plans and restock your disaster supplies kits. It's also time to register for the 2009 ShakeOut! If you participated in the 2008 drill or not, this is your once-a-year chance to practice how to be safe during earthquakes: Drop, Cover, and Hold On.

Over 5.4 million southern Californians participated in the 2008 ShakeOut. As a statewide drill in 2009, this number could be doubled... but we can only include if you register at www.ShakeOut.org/register. As of August 31, over 3.7 million participants are registered statewide!

There are many ways to participate in the ShakeOut in 2009. At the least, plan a "drop, cover, and hold on" drill involving everyone in your household. You can also discuss your overall disaster plan with your family or roommates, secure the contents of your home so they won't fall, and restock your supplies. The updated ShakeOut.org website is the central source of information for how to participate, learn about your area's earthquake hazards, and find local events, news, and participant lists for all California counties.

Everyone can participate! Individuals, families, businesses, schools, government agencies and organizations are all invited to register. Talk to your employer, neighborhood association, faith-based organization, or others about registering as well. Your involvement in the ShakeOut insprires many others to register and hold their own drills!

Register today at ShakeOut.org

Letter re: Flu Season

2009-08-30T16:56:00.000-07:00

Emergency 72 Hour Kit

2009-08-30T16:36:00.000-07:00

Emergency 72 Hour Kit
What is an Emergency 72 Hour Kit?
• This is the bag you grab as you go out the door in an emergency “incident” (Earth Quake, Flood, Hurricane etc.) It will help keep you more comfortable until help can finally get to you. It will also help you sleep better knowing you are ready for the incident when it occurs
Considerations
• If Murphy's law prevails when the incident occurs it will be in the dark of night, in the rain, on the coldest night of the year. Plan for that
• There will probably be no..Electricity, gas or water. Plan for that
• Police, fire departments and ambulances may not be able to get to you. Plan for that
• Inspect Kit every six months (batteries, shelf lives etc)

Shelter and Warmth
• "Emergency" space blanket or bag
• 5-Heavy duty plastic trash bags (2.5 mil) (many uses)
• 25' of small gauge rope
• Poncho/ rain suit
• At least one change of clothes
• Gloves
• Hiking shoes/boots
• Hat

Communication equipment
• FRS radio (1 set) with charger/extra batteries
• Hamm Radio with charger/extra batteries (if qualified)
• Transistor or wind up radio
• Cell Phone with charger/extra batteries

Food and Water
• Rotate food and water every six months (or by expiration date)
• One gallon per person per day (2 quarts drinking 2 quarts cooking)
• Iodine water purification tablets
• Canned juices
• Instant coffee/Tea
• Only get food you like, try the food before the incident
• Individual ready-to-eat canned food or
• Freeze dried camping foods (MRE’s, LERPS etc)
• Comfort items ( hard candy, gum, nuts, dried fruits, Trail mix etc,)
• Protein or fruit bars (Cliff bars etc)
• Soup
• Jerky
• Peanut butter
• Dry Cereal
• Crackers
• Sugar, salt, pepper
• Vitamins
Heat, Light, and Signaling
• Waterproof match case
• Waterproof strike-anywhere matches
• Disposable lighter
• whistle on lanyard [beware of metal whistles they freeze to lips in cold]
• Stainless steel double-surface signal mirror
• AA or AAA flashlight with fresh and spare batteries
• AA or AAA headlamp with fresh and spare batteries (you may need both hands)
• Portable cooking device ( Sterno, Coleman etc)
• Light sticks (Cyalume)
Knives and Tools
• Swiss army knife or Leatherman tool
• Wood axe
• Gas shutoff tool
• Can Opener (if not in SAK or Leatherman)
• Something(s) to cook in (Pot/ Pan)
• Knives, fork, spoon, ladle, etc (Mess kits are easiest)
• Re-sealable plastic bags
• Duct tape
•

First Aid
• Prescription Medications
• First Aide Instruction Booklet
• Triangular bandage
• Flexible fabric band-aids of various sizes
• Hand wipes or hand sterilizer
• Insect repellant
• Sun screen
• Aspirins or Tylenol
• Pepto Bismol / Anti acids
• 5 -3"x3" sterile gauze pads
• 5-4”X4” sterile gauze pads
• 1 roll 2" cling bandage
• decongestant tablets
• Blister pack of throat lozenges
• Neosporin antibiotic ointment
• Extra safety pins
• Scissors
• Thermometer (non mercury non glass)
• Tweezers
• Adhesive cloth tape
• 2 pair sterile gloves
• Instant cold compress
• Burn ointment
• Eye wash solution
• Anti-diarrhea medication
• Laxative

General
• Telephone change
• Money at least $50.00 (small bills) (credit card machines probably won’t work)
• Pictures of family, roommates, pets (in case they get separated)
• Extra pair eyeglasses in unbreakable case
• Deck of cards/ small set of checkers etc
• Copies of important docs (wills, birth, marriage certificates etc)
• Copy of important phone numbers

Personal Hygiene
• Disposable razor
• Comb/brush
• toothbrush
• toothpaste
• toilet tissue
• feminine hygiene products
• soap/shampoo
•

For the Baby
• Formula
• Diapers
• Bottles
• Powdered Milk
• Medications
• Moist Towelettes
• Diaper rash ointment
• Favorite doll or toy

For your Pet
• Food
• Water
• Chew toy
• Medications
• Leash
Use a quality Back-Pack(s) or Duffle(s) to carry all the above
Put an ID on your bag Keep where you can get at it
Keep a light source at the top of the pack, remember Murphy!

Moonlight at the Ranch -- Santa Paula Fundraiser for Fire & Police

2009-08-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

Moonlight at the Ranch is an annual fundraiser for the Santa Paula Fire and Police Departments that offers guests a not-to-be-forgotten, fun experience.

Moonlight at the Ranch started in 2007 and with each year's unique theme has become "Ventura County's signature event!" featuring delicious cuisine, fine wines and hearty brews from the region's best! Live music for dancing and other entertainment make each year's Moonlight more than a fundraiser, but rather THE celebration of the year!

With legendary astronaut and Apollo 11 rocket hero Buzz Aldrin as Honorary Chairman, the August 22 "Moonlight at the Ranch III: Out of This World!" promises to be a never to be forgotten space adventure.

www.moonlightattheranch.com

the Atlantic Article on Craig Fugate (FEMA Admin)

2009-08-12T21:21:00.000-07:00

http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200909/fema

Craig Fugate, the new head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency under President Barack Obama, is an unusual choice for the job, historically speaking....

Article by Amanda Ripley

Attaching a $5 Gas Wrench to Gas Meter

2009-08-08T10:43:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of my building's gas meter with attached instruction card and inexpensive ($5) gas wrench I purchased at local hardware store.

Discuss with your CERT instructor for specifics on how to use a gas meter wrench.

We learned that it's important to inspect, after an earthquake, the meter for gas leaks (hissing sounds). Do NOT automatically turn off the Gas Meter without checking first -- it will turn off all the pilot lights in the building, and then the Utility Company has to show up to turn back on again.

(Rotate picture clockwise, if necessary.)

Ojai OK wear

2009-08-07T21:55:00.001-07:00

Hey... it could happen.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Legal Newsline)-Good Samaritans in California are now protected from civil liability

2009-08-07T21:39:00.001-07:00

Schwarzenegger shields Good Samaritans from lawsuits
BY CHRIS RIZO
Arnold Schwarzenegger (R)
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Legal Newsline)-Good Samaritans in California are now protected from civil liability, under legislation signed this week by Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The two new laws, which took effect immediately, were drafted in response to a state Supreme Court decision late last year that said state law only partially protected those who voluntarily act as Good Samaritans from possible negligence lawsuits.

"Now Good Samaritans have no reason to hesitate to responsibly help someone in an emergency out of fear that they might be sued," said state Assemblyman Mike Feuer, D-Los Angeles.

His legislation -- Assembly Bill 83 -- affords protections to anyone assisting at the scene of an emergency, regardless of whether they are trained personnel, unless they act recklessly.

The bill, which passed the Legislature unanimously, was supported by the Civil Justice Coalition of California, a tort reform group.

"This legislation encourages Californians to look out for each other at a time when public resources are all too scarce," Feuer said. "I'm proud of the broad coalition that came together to make this common sense law possible."

A second civil liability-related bill - this one by Republican Sen. John Benoit of Riverside -- expands legal protections for providing any emergency care. Senate Bill 39 shields volunteer workers who perform disaster services.

"Good Samaritans should never again have to second-guess the consequences of helping," said Benoit, a former Highway patrol commander. "Thankfully, the chilling effect that last December's court ruling had on people willing to help in times of emergency has been drastically diminished because of this law's immediate implementation."

In December the state's high court in a controversial 4-3 ruling found that California law protects only medical professionals from civil damages when they attempt to care for someone in an emergency situation.

The case followed a 2004 Halloween night crash in which one woman pulled a co-worker from a crashed vehicle. Her rough handling of the victim, who suffered spinal injury, is believed to have contributed to the victim's paralysis. The paralyzed woman then sued her co-worker who tried to help her.

In 1980, the California Legislature enacted a law that states "no person who in good faith, and not for compensation, renders emergency care at the scene of an emergency shall be liable for any civil damages results from any act or omission."

From Legal Newsline: Reach staff reporter Chris Rizo at chrisrizo@legalnewsline.com.

CERT-Los Angeles CERT refresher - 8/16/09

2009-08-03T22:54:00.000-07:00

CERT Los Angeles is holding a refresher on Sunday, August 16th. CERT began in Los Angeles in 1985, so they've got quite good at this.

This is open to all CERT Graduates (even those outside Los Angeles).

Please go to this web-site to register, if interested:

You will need to register, including faxing down your Ojai Valley CERT certificate.

http://www.cert-la.com/refresher.htm

The next CERT refresher will be held on Sunday, August 16, 2009, at Fire Station 88 in Sherman Oaks.

The drill is open to all graduates of CERT training programs.

Come practice and refresh the skills you learned during the CERT Basic Training.

Get more information and sign up now at http://www.cert-la.com/refresher.htm

Linda Underwood for www.cert-la.com

Upcoming Ham Radio Licensing in The Ojai Valley!!

2009-08-02T20:16:00.000-07:00

Calabasas to Ventura to Santa Paula and now to The Ojai Valley...

When: Saturday August 29th 2009
10:00 am – 2:00 pm (Sign in, Study & Snacks)
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm (Exam)

Where: Oak View Community Resource Center
555 Mahoney Avenue
Oak View, California

Sponsors: Ojai Valley CERT
Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club
Ventura Harbor CERT Group

Contact: Sean Kellythorne
kellythornes@yahoo.com
805-701-6556

Cost: $25.00 covers snack, expenses and the $4.00 Exam Fee

Registration is limited. Pre-registration required.
Reserve your space now! Mail a $25.00 check to:
Sean Kellythorne
133 Don Felipe Way, Ojai CA 93023
We email you all the study materials on receipt of your check.

NYT article on Ham Licensing in Calabasas

2009-08-02T18:35:00.000-07:00

Kudos to Norm Goodkin for pulling of another very successful Ham Licensing Class -- for 75 teens.

Other kids are consumed with cellphones, text messages and Tweets, e-mails and Facebook postings.

But 75 teenagers in Calabasas have become licensed amateur radio operators and hope to lead a new wave of shortwave enthusiasts.

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-teen-radio25-2009jul25,0,1740751.story

Fun with moulage (disaster make-up) in Fillmore

2009-08-02T18:25:00.000-07:00

On Saturday July 18, the City of Fillmore Fire Department hosted a simulated mass causality incident at the El Dorado Mobile Park. The goal of this event was to provide members of the El Dorado Block Captain Program the opportunity to practice basic first aid and triage skills they learned about during a previous weeks training.

The training scenario included a magnitude 7.0 earthquake triggering the collapse of the community clubhouse located within the mobile home park. Approximately 25 victims were placed inside the clubhouse tangled amongst various obstacles and debris. To add to the realism the windows of the building were blacked out, the lights in the building shut off and theatrical smoke added to the area – all to simulate post-earthquake conditions.

http://www.fillmoregazette.com/community/el-dorado-residents-take-part-disaster-drill

Priority Pre-Registration for Certainly CERT Exercise open Aug 24th

2009-08-02T12:02:00.000-07:00

The Certainly CERT Exercise on November 7th will open up for priority pre-registration between August 24th and August 30th. They will only accept 20 participants from each CERT Group (for example, Ojai Valley CERT). After August 30th, the registration will open up again and cap at 250 registrants.

I will keep this blog posted when the Ventura County Fire Department opens up the web-link for registration.

We are looking for a good turnout (20 registrants) and representation from The Ojai Valley for CERT graduates that want to participate in the exercise.

Please note that if you are planning to participate as support staff (victim, Exercise Supervisor, etc) then there will be a separate registration for that.

Details:

The priority pre-registration for Op CC is August 24th - Aug 30. I encourage all our members to enroll on August 24th to ensure that they get a slot for the Op CC exercise. Each area is limited to 20 slots.

After August 30th there will be open enrollment for anyone. Enrollment will remain open until 250 are enrolled. I recommend that our CERT folks who do not get enrolled during the closed enrollment week that they enroll on August 31 anytime after 12 midnight.

This will be a great experience for those participating, so make sure you get enrolled early.

For those participating in support roles you will be enrolled as CERT support personnel and not included in the 20 person restriction for participants.

An option is to volunteer for a support activity. There are a number of openings still available:

Victims - see what it is like from the other side. Must be willing to moan. 50 needed
Communicators - ACS and ham licenses require. Willing to listen. 5 needed
Parking personnel - help park cars, hand out lunches (eat as well). 15 needed
Team leader - Fire suppression, Can put out fires lead a group and keep cool 1 needed
Gophers - get stuff, return stuff, move stuff, find stuff, not lose stuff, 10 - 15 needed
Assistant Safety Officers - make sure exercises are safe. Be willing to work all day. 5 needed.
Altogether we will need at least a hundred support personnel to make this exercise work.

Every one will get lunch and there will be plenty of water. There will be no shortage of work so you will not get bored.

Major pay off - learn a lot of things, meet a lot of fellow CERT folks, and have a good time.

For more information and how to get involved contact your CERT Neighborhood Area Coordinator right away.

Sean Kellythorne
Chief Planner for Operation Certainly CERT
November 7th 2009
0800 - 1700
Ventura County Fire Department
Regional Training Center
Camarillo Airport, Camarillo.
805-701-6556

2009 National Conference on Community Preparedness (August 9 - 13)

2009-08-01T20:08:00.000-07:00

Take a look at this document to see the list of speakers and agenda items.

Looks like Citizen Corps (which includes CERT) is really being taken serious by FEMA and other agencies.

Congratulations to Roger Kehr and his team from Cottonwood, Utah for being one of the finalists within the Collaborative Preparedness category. We've shared many stories and ideas over last year.

Roger will be chatting with Craig Fugate (FEMA Administrator) about our OK Drill.

http://www.iaem.com/documents/NCCP_Program_final.pdf

In Case of Emergency Blog - worth reviewing

2009-07-31T22:33:00.000-07:00

Check out this Blog -- tons of great info within it on Personal Preparedness.

http://incaseofemergencyblog.com/

Ojai OK Drill -- Weds, Oct 14th at 7PM

2009-07-31T22:25:00.000-07:00

It's on again!!!

The Ojai OK Drill is set for Wednesday, October 14th, starting at 7PM. Counting completes by 8PM with a radio communication completed by 8:30PM. Our goal last year was 250 and we counted 700. This year, the goal is 1400 signs counted.

Please go to: http://okdrill.blogspot.com for more details. Twitter: OKDRILL

If you are a member of CERT and are needing clarification, or to be put in touch with your local coordinator, please reach out to me.

Paul Garth
mrpaulgarth@gmail.com

Head of FEMA commenting on Personal Preparedness

2009-07-31T22:24:00.001-07:00

FEMA Head Says Personal Preparedness “Must Be National Priority”; Requires “Considerable National Attention” — “Every Elected And Appointed Official At Every Level of Government Must Make It A Priority”

Pretty clear directive from head of FEMA -- Craig Fugate.

http://incaseofemergencyblog.com/2009/07/28/fema-head-says-personal-preparedness-must-be-national-priority-requires-considerable-national-attention-every-elected-and-appointed-official-at-every-level-of-government-must-make-it-a-p/

Great Southern California Shakeout (Oct 15th)

2009-07-28T19:02:00.000-07:00

Get Ready to ShakeOut!

At 10:15 a.m. on October 15, 2009, millions of Californians will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in The Great California ShakeOut, the largest earthquake drill ever!

Now is the best time to register, so that you have time to plan your drill. If you participated in the 2008 drill, we hope that you will register again to practice how to be safe during earthquakes, improve your disaster plans, and get prepared. To see which organizations are already participating in your area, visit your county’s web page on http://www.shakeout.org.

Over 5.4 million southern Californians participated in the 2008 ShakeOut. As a statewide drill in 2009, this number could be doubled! But we can only count you as a part of the ShakeOut if you register at www.shakeout.org/register. As of July 15th, nearly 2.7 million participants are registered statewide.

There are many ways to participate in the ShakeOut in 2009. At the least, plan a "drop, cover, and hold on" drill involving everyone in your organization or business. Or you can exercise your full emergency plan. The updated ShakeOut.org is the central source of information for how to participate, regional earthquake hazards, and local events, news, and participant lists for all California counties.

Everyone can participate! Individuals, families, businesses, schools, government agencies and organizations are all invited to register. Your involvement in the ShakeOut insprires many others to register and hold their own drills. Please encourage others to follow your lead.

If you were a registered participant in 2008, you can log in with your access code and simply update your information. You can request your access code if you have forgotten it.

Register today at http://www.shakeout.org!

VCFD web-site with slick CERT info & video

2009-07-18T17:13:00.000-07:00

Take a look at the Ventura County Fire Department web-site. It's displaying a loop of the "People Like You" CERT DVD.

http://fire.countyofventura.org/Default.aspx?TabId=67

CERT Supplies - Online Store

2009-07-12T14:50:00.000-07:00

At the recent July 4th Ojai Parade, one of our CERT members was sporting a CERT ballcap and t-shirt.

Checkout http://www.cert-kits.com/ for more details.

Ojai Valley CERT marches in Ojai July 4th Parade -- and wins a prize!

2009-07-07T23:19:00.001-07:00

(Photo Courtesy of Steve Adams)

The Ojai Valley CERT marched in Ojai's July 4th Parade, in series with Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club and American Red Cross. Everybody had a great time and the numbers were a noticeable increase from last year. We found that twirling the Neighborhood banners was a crowd pleaser, so will continue efforts next year with CERT pom poms. Along with an increase in marchers, we also proudly towed the City of Ojai's Mass Casualty Unit Trailer.

I had placed our entry this year for judging, and... WE WON!!! First Place Category Winners Section (Marching/Walking).

Thank you to all who participated and cheered us on.

President Obama message about Personal Responsibility

2009-06-21T22:42:00.000-07:00

Interesting comments from our President on personal responsibility needed in preparation for any disaster.

McClatchy Washington Bureau

Posted on Fri, May. 29, 2009
Obama: Hurricane readiness is residents' responsibility
Steven Thomma | McClatchy Newspapers

WASHINGTON — Ahead of Monday's official start of the hurricane season, President Barack Obama urged Americans in vulnerable areas to take responsibility for their own safety and to get ready now.

He said all Americans should make plans now for how they'd handle an emergency, and to have a ready stock of non-perishable food, water, first aid kits and radios.

Obama said during a visit to the Federal Emergency Management Agency that the federal government is determined to be ready for an emergency. However, he stressed that the first responsibility falls with individuals, and then with the state governments.

"We just saw some statistics coming out of Florida indicating that a huge percentage of people in hurricane areas simply don't make plans. They don't have a plan, they don't have a set of contingencies that will allow them to respond in an effective way," Obama said.

He said those who can prepare themselves should do so now, lest they burden the government during an emergency and distract it from helping those who can't help themselves.

"I hope that message of personal responsibility sinks in," he said.

Obama was among the many Democrats who criticized the response of the federal government to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, particularly the response by FEMA and its former administrator, Michael Brown, who had little disaster management experience. President George W. Bush at first praised Brown with his now famous comment, "Brownie, you're doing a heck of a job," then later fired him.

After a briefing at the National Response Coordination Center, Obama praised newly installed FEMA chief Craig Fugate, a Florida emergency response veteran.

"We've welcomed Craig Fugate, who has hit the ground running and is already doing an outstanding job not just leading this briefing but leading this excellent agency," Obama said.

At the White House, officials stressed that Americans who've moved since the last hurricanes into areas such as Florida probably don't know how to get ready or what to expect.

"Areas that have been hit recently actually tend to be more responsive to this," said Louis Uccellini, director of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction.

"We are particularly concerned for areas where there's been a tremendous population growth and have not experienced a hurricane, where these people do not really fully comprehend or understand the types of dangers that face them."

Thanks to steady migration to cities in Florida and up the East Coast, he said, nearly 50 percent of the population hasn't experienced a hurricane.

He urged all Americans to check a government Web site, www.ready.gov, that is tailored to local areas for tips on how to prepare.

"Waiting 24 hours before a landfall is too late. It's too late for making plans and in many cases it's too late to even evacuate," he said.

CERT Class -- Starts June 17th (Register Now!!)

2009-05-24T12:15:00.001-07:00

Ojai Valley CERT is extremely pleased to announce an upcoming CERT class

Next Training Class Starts
June 17th, 2009

Supervisor Steve Bennett’s office is registering Ojai Valley residents for Community Emergency Response Training (CERT). The 7-week course, sponsored by the Ventura County Fire Department, covers basic skills that are important to know in a disaster when emergency services are not available. CERT participants receive training, practice and learn how to work as a team in their neighborhoods. No prior experience or training is necessary, and there is no fee for the program.

Classes will begin on Wednesday, June 17th, 2009 from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM and will run the following 5 Wednesdays. The last (7th) class will be held Saturday July 25th from 10 AM- Noon where drills associated with CERT training will take place

Classes will be held in the multi-purpose room at the Oak View Park and Resource Center, 555 Mahoney, Oak View.

To register call Supervisor Bennett’s office at 654-2703.

Ham Licensing Opportunity - June 6th (Santa Paula)

2009-05-24T10:46:00.000-07:00

Get your FCC Amateur Radio Operator’s Technician License in ONE day using our proven System

When: Saturday June 6th 2009
9:00 am – 3:00 pm (Sign in, Study & Snacks)
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm (Exam)

Where: The Santa Paula Community Center
540 Main Street
Santa Paula CA 93060

Sponsors: Santa Paula CERT Group
Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club
Ojai Valley CERT

Contact: Sean Kellythorne KI6MGI@yahoo.com

Cost: $21.00 covers snack and expenses.
Bring $4.00 cash for Exam fee.

Pre-registration required!!!
Registration is limited. Reserve your space now!
Mail a $21.00 check to:
Sean Kellythorne
133 Don Felipe Way
Ojai CA 93023
Study materials and directions will be emailed on receipt of your check.

PodCast Interview with Capt Steve Lazenby (CERT Instructor)

2009-05-21T22:59:00.000-07:00

http://1400localsonly.podomatic.com/player/web/2009-05-15T12_27_32-07_00

Ojai Valley CERT Organization Map

2009-04-18T00:47:00.000-07:00

I'm trying out this web-based mind-mapping tool:

Please go to this link to see the Ojai Valley CERT Organizational Structure.

This map will, over time, display all the rendezvous points and CERT teams.

List of Ham Radios to consider

2009-04-18T00:03:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Sean Kellythorne (KI6MGI) put together this list of Ham Radios to consider for your first/next purchase.

OVN article on Ojai Valley CERT

2009-04-17T23:56:00.003-07:00

Ojai Valley News posted an article I wrote on our recent CERT Graduation and Exercise.

Ojai Valley CERT class graduated on 4/4/09

2009-04-12T15:44:00.001-07:00

The most recent Ojai Valley CERT Graduation was April 4th, 2009.

Ojai Valley CERT continues to grow as another class of 40 students held their final class, graduation ceremony and drill exercise Saturday, April 4th.

A last minute venue change required the class to complete their training at the New Wine Harvest Fellowship Church in Ojai -- thanks to Pastor Diane Bailey (KI6VCN), the East City Ojai CERT Neighborhood Area Coordinator.

A major addition to the group’s assets is access to the City of Ojai’s Mass Casualty Unit Trailer (MCU). The CERT group provides frequent inventory checks, basic maintenance, and cross-trains Ojai CERT members in equipment and supplies. Several CERT Ventura County Auxiliary Communications Service members are prepared to relocate the trailer on a moment’s notice, under the direction of Chief of Police Chris Dunn in event of emergency/disaster. Ventura County Fire Department provides the MCU training. Administrative oversight, maintenance and supplies are provided by Mike Culver, Ojai Director of Public Works.

The trailer was towed to the New Wine Fellowship Church grounds by Ken Williams (KI6VDT) and Paul Garth (KI6USA). Ojai CERT graduates set up the emergency equipment, tent; generator and floodlights. Stretchers, triage tarps, flags and other supplies were put in place during their final class. The new graduates have the experience of using real emergency equipment in a controlled training.

Brian Brennan, Executive Aide to Ventura County District One Supervisor Steve Bennett presented each graduating CERT member with a Certificate and Go-Bag. Brian offered encouraging remarks, and delivered a message of goodwill from Mr. Bennett.

Each CERT new graduate was introduced to their Neighborhood Area Coordinator and integrated into their team. During the drill the CERT graduates maintained their neighborhood groups, as they rotated through the various exercises, which allowed them to work together and form partnerships.

The purpose of the CERT Drill is to review the various practical aspects of the training which includes: Incident Command System; Communications; Search & Rescue; Cribbing & Lifting; Fire Suppression; and Medical/Triage. The exercise was a simulated earthquake affecting the site.

Kate Nelson (KI6YBB) volunteered as the Incident Commander and established the response teams.

Fire Captain Lazenby managed the Fire suppression exercise with Jake Bailey (KI6VCO). Kathlyn Miller (KI6VDI) assisted with Medical/Triage. Diane Bailey (KI6VCN) assisted with Search & Rescue. Beth von Gunten (KI6YBL) managed the cribbing & lifting drills. Ken Williams (KI6VDT) provided the Incident Commander with communication support. Paul Garth (KI6USA) assisted with Logistics. Sean Kellythorne (KI6MGI) ensured Safety during the drill.

The Ojai Valley CERT leadership team are all Ham Operators, supported by the Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club. Twelve CERT graduates earned their Ham Radio licenses the prior Saturday.

Congratulations to all CERT graduates. Look for us in the 4th of July Parade, and please contact Cindy Cantle at (805) 654-2703 to register for upcoming CERT classes.

Upcoming American Red Cross Training events

2009-04-12T14:50:00.000-07:00

The Ventura County Chapter of the American Red Cross holds frequent training programs which could be of interest to CERT Graduates -- First Aid, CPR, Shelter Management, etc.

For any volunteer effort, it's sometimes challenging to decide which hat to wear when assisting during a disaster. There are two areas to continually develop over time: additional skills/recurrency & awareness of another group's operations.

While CERT and Red Cross have functionally different operations immediately after a disaster, there may come a time to "switch hats" to assist other groups if needed.

Disaster Action Team (DAT) Mini-Institute

Saturday April 18th and 19th is a free Disaster Action Team (DAT) mini-institute at the Arc Enrichment Center at 210 Canada St. This is an excellent training opportunity and is put on in Ojai only a couple of times a year. It is a two-day training session that covers all the basics of Red Cross service and qualifies you to participate as a Red Cross responder.

If you want to extend your full participation in the Ojai Valley "triad" of CERT, Red Cross, and Amateur Radio, sign up for this event. Go out to www.arcventura.org and register for the class. The Institute covers Orientation, Mass Care Overview, and DAT Workshop on Saturday. On Sunday will be Shelter Operations and Shelter Simulation.

First Aid & CPR

Also under Red Cross training is a special class on Wednesday and Thursday this week (15-16 April) from 6:00 to 10:00 PM for First Aid and CPR. The CPR class covers infants, children, and adults - this is not common; usually the class is adult CPR only. If you are already an RC volunteer the cost of the training is $10. If you are not an RC volunteer you can still take the class for $60. Also highly recommended, and you know if you are not up-to-date on your CPR and F/A you need this. Go to the website and register -- www.arcventura.org

Auxiliary Communication Service Brochure

2009-03-01T15:46:00.000-08:00

Ham Licensing Opportunity - March 28th in Ventura

2009-02-28T18:29:00.000-08:00

Ventura County Fire Dept Video - Wildlife Fires

2009-02-15T12:45:00.001-08:00

Please take a couple minutes to watch this informative video, sponsored by City of Ventura, which interviews Fire Department First Responders on what to do to prevent and prepare for Wildfires in the County.

The information applies to CERT preparedness for any disaster/emergency.

http://cityofventura.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=5

Ham Radio Programming, Etiquette and Protocols

2009-02-14T22:19:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer: The following material is the opinion of Paul Garth (KI6USA), based on his experience and understanding. Please send any corrections or suggestions to mrpaulgarth@gmail.com.

Simplex Frequency Communication

*Radio to Radio communication without need of a third party repeater
*Both transmit and receive frequency are the same
*Line of sight requirement typically reduces effective distance between radios
*For example, Ojai Simplex Frequency is: 146.520

Repeater Frequency Communication

*Repeater Output Frequency is entered on your radio
*Repeaters are located centrally on top of high terrain
*Greater distance between radios possible (Ojai Valleywide & Ventura Countywide)
*Very useful if each radio is on either side of a mountain with repeater on top
*Frequency transmitted on your radio to repeater is offset by negative .60
*For example, Receive 145.400 and Transmit 144.800
*Radio may need to be programmed for negative offset (-)
*Note: The offset (which can be negative or positive) typically is chosen by the range the repeater output frequency lies within. See chart below. In our case, both repeater systems require negative offset. Useful to know that repeaters can be linked to each other, thereby increasing the effective range.

Private Line Tone (PL)

*Ensures communication transmitted to the correct repeater
*Look up Repeater Frequency for applicable PL Tone (for example 127.3)
*Not all repeaters have PL Tones -- for example, Ojai Repeater

Channel Assignments

*Channel Numbers assigned by local Ham Radio Groups
*Useful to communicate tactical changes, for example - "Switch to channel 15"
*Ojai Valley (Area 5) Repeater is Channel 5
*Ventura Countywide Repeater is Channel 9
*Ojai Valley (Area 5) Simplex is Channel 15
*Recommendation to initially program these three frequencies into applicable channels

Ojai Valley (N6FL) Repeater Frequency

*145.400 (programmed into radio)
*Negative offset (-.60)
*No PL Tone required
*Channel 5

Ojai Valley Simplex Frequency

*146.520 (programmed into radio)
*Simplex - no negative offset (transmit and receive on same frequency)
*No PL Tone required
*Channel 15
*Note: This is the backup frequency if N6FL repeater should fail

Ventura Countywide (WA6ZTT) Repeater

*146.880 (programmed into radio)
*Negative offset (-.60)
*PL Tone 127.3
*Channel 9

Ventura Countywide Simplex/repeater output

*146.880 (programmed into radio)
*Simplex - no negative offset (transmit and receive on same frequency)
*PL Tone 127.3
*Channel XXX - need to check on this
*Note: Simplex Frequency used if Repeater Fails

Ventura Countywide Simplex

*147.570 (programmed into radio)
*Simplex - no negative offset (transmit and receive on same frequency)
*No PL Tone required
*Channel 10
*Note: This is the backup frequency if WA6ZTT repeater should fail

Preference always goes to Emergency Traffic

*During conversations, ensure enough pauses to listen for any traffic
*Begin each scheduled net with a callout for any pending emergency traffic

Get good at listening

*Primary skill of Ham Radio is to listen and document important/needed traffic
*Listen on frequency before transmitting
*Write down seemingly important traffic - it maybe a one-time emergency callout
*Conserve battery by minimizing unnecessary chatter

Think before speaking

*Who are you going to call (what is their call-sign?)
*What is your call-sign?
*What is the information you need to communicate/relay (think about this first)
*Be brief and to the point
*No long-winded speeches
*If transmitting more than 20-30 seconds say: "break", key-up briefly to listen for traffic, and then resume transmission
*Avoid "Ahhh", "Ummm"

Plain Talk

*Do not speak with codes (no place for "10-4" in Ham Radio)
*Speak in normal, plain English
*If using a repeater, not necessary to say "Over"

Press and Hold the Push-to-Talk (PTT) button for half a second before transmitting

*Repeater needs to open a channel for your transmission
*Avoid clipping (omitting) first second of your transmission

Speak across the microphone

*Do not speak directly into the microphone
*Speak across the microphone
*Distance between microphone and lips is about 2 to 3 inches
*Note: This avoids distortion and over modulation

Transmit the call-sign of party you are calling first

*For example, "W6OEU, this is KI6USA - radio check"
*I am calling W60EU
*My call sign is KI6USA

FCC Requirements for using Ham Radio Call-signs

*Do not transmit (to test the repeater) without transmitting (at least) your call-sign
*During a conversation, transmit your call-sign every 10 minutes
*Note: In a two-way conversation, one party can transmit both call-signs for the record
*Transmit call-sign at the end of conversation (for example, "This is KI6USA, clear")
*If using tactical call-sign (for example, Shadow2), also include FCC call-sign after

Recommendation to purchase and use headset

*For outdoor communication, I highly recommend purchasing and using headsets
*Keeps both hands free
*Reduces need for high volume and therefore saves battery drain
*Useful for loud ambient noise -- still able to hear radio calls when School Marching Band passes
*Do NOT use VOX -- this allows transmission just by the volume of your voice and can cause unwanted transmission

Ensure batteries are charged up

*Recommended to purchase and carry a spare battery
*For a long-day event, charge both main and spare batteries within 48 hours of event (charge one battery overnight for each day leading to event)

Net Control Etiquette

*Net Control Operator manages the net
*Be patient when waiting on Net Control Response -- they maybe occupied listening to another frequency
*Listen before transmitting
*Ask for a radio check before beginning lengthy transmission
*Keep transmissions short and concise
*Always ask permission from Net Control to "go direct" when wishing to speak directly with another person
*When finished with direct transmission conclude with, "Back to net, "
*When acting as Net Control, follow applicable scripts

No Profanity

*Do NOT swear -- pretty simple request

No Personal Information transmitted

*Do not communicate personal information (for example, "Larry -- I live at xxx and I'll be on vacation for 2 weeks")

No business conversation allowed

*Do not communicate business information
*Exception is discussing Ham Radio equipment sales

Transmissions when working for a served agency

*When operating for a served agency (for example, Los Angeles Marathon Staff), transmit only the information they are requesting to be transmitted
*Do not invent/create information to be transmitted
*Do not relay information you've heard on-the-air to the Press - direct them to a Public Information Officer. For example, do not communicate, "We've been pretty busy today, there were 3 accidents and 1 heart attack victim".

Keep track of your Shadow Assignment

*Keep a body-length away from your assignment at all times
*Keep an eye on their movement and anticipate their movement and direction
*Do NOT take your eye of your assignment. Do not make eye contact with anyone else.
*If close to your assignment and other people, helpful to wear a headset and pretend to be listening to traffic -- this sounds strange, but makes sense when you do shadow work in a busy environment. You must always be listening for calls anyway
*Do NOT allow bystanders to engage you in conversation which could distract you and lose sight of your assignment - you can't legally relay to a non-Ham Operator what you heard anyway.
*Proactively write down information that your assignment may need later

Dual InBound Receive

*If the situation warrants, and your radio has this function, consider programming dual inbound receive
*This allows your radio to receive two separate frequencies and transmit on one primary frequency
*Useful if you are a Shadow working a Marathon (can listen to primary Shadow Frequency, while monitoring Mile Net). More information you can relay to your assignment the better

Avoid being cocky in offering logistical opinions to served agencies

*Because Ham Radio Operators are schooled and practiced in circuit discipline while enjoying superior communication capabilities, it is possible to observe obvious areas of improvement within a served agency's operation
*Remember that your primary function is to relay information on behalf of served agency
*Avoid offering strong opinions for improvement which can annoy and frustrate the served agency

Weekly Radio Nets for Ojai Valley

*Tuesday, 7:00PM to 7:15PM (Net Control Rag-Chew and early check-ins)
*145.400, negative offset, no PL, channel 5
*Informal conversation, but FCC rules apply
*Don't worry too much about communication protocol -- get on the air!

*Tuesday, 7:15PM to 7:30PM (Net Control weekly OVARC net)
*145.400, negative offset, no PL, channel 5
*Formal net, announcements, check-ins, request "direct to" if needed

Weekly Radio Nets for Ventura County ACS - Auxiliary Communication Service

*Tuesday, 7:30PM to 8:00PM (Net Control)
*146.880, negative offset, PL 127.3, channel 9
*Formal conversation
*ACS Leadership Updates and announcements
*Area Reports (# check-ins)
*Note: Whomever is Net Control for Ojai at 7PM represents us at 7:30PM
*Important Note: Unlikely that, outside of our Net Control Operator, others in Ojai will transmit on this net

Recommendations for newly minted ham operators

*Plan on being on each week's net
*Use the rag-chew portion to practice communicating
*Listen to the Countywide net for best practice communications
*Practice communications outside of the weekly Tuesday nets -- make a "sched" with someone and chat
*Do not hesitate to request assistance - Ham Radio Operators are notorious for offering their time to get people up and running and communicating effectively
*Please understand that seasoned Ham Radio Operators take their unpaid volunteer communication efforts and assignments extremely seriously and apply exacting dedication. Our trademark phrase, is "When All Else Fails - Amateur Radio". Ensure that for each radio transmission you represent the Ham Radio community professionally at all times and continue on the tradition of excellence.
*Request to be Net Control where a seasoned operator will sit next to you during the net to give you assistance and moral support
*Note: One day you'll be net control for both Ojai and the County -- it's all done by script and not that scary. It's still nice to have someone next to you, though!
*Remember that Ham Radio is not just about communicating during emergencies -- there are practical applications like communicating GPS coordinates from the hills north of Thacher High School to an operator sitting at home doing GoogleMap searches
*Have fun and don't take all this too seriously, even though some time it is serious
*Continually learn about Ham Radio. Read Books. Upgrade to General Class and Extra Class. Build Antennas. Play with Electronic Kits to build circuits, etc.
*Join ARRL (Amateur Radio Relay League - www.arrl.org) which represents Ham Radio Community to the FCC -- you receive an interesting monthly magazine along with membership benefits
*Learn something and then pass on the information to someone else who can benefit -- everything you've read so far was communicated directly to me by various people over last several years.
*"Amateur" just means you cannot be paid for communicating, it does not mean anything less than behaving professionally.
*Eagerly recruit everyone you know to become a Ham Radio Operator, but still maintain the mystique and "magic" of radio communication
*Regularly attend monthly OVARC meetings (3rd Saturday, 8AM at Holy Cross Preschool)
*Sign-up for various events (Camarillo Christmas Parade, Run For your Life, Santa Clarita Marathon, Los Angeles Marathon, Coyote 2 Moon, etc).
*And so on... and so on...

73 de KI6USA (Paul)

Ham Radio Operator Positions available for upcoming Los Angeles Marathon (Memorial Day, 2009)

2009-02-14T16:50:00.000-08:00

Over the years, I've been a big fan of volunteering for Marathons. I've worked several New York Marathons as a Finish Line Marshal (over 400 runners cross the finish line - 20' wide- per minute) and then continued with similar positions for Los Angeles Marathon.

Since 2005, when I became Ham Licensed, I continue to Volunteer for the Los Angeles Marathon -- started off as Mile Net Operator and then moved on to Shadow Operator for Acura Bike Tour Race Director.

It's quite a trip to be part of the communications loop between Department of Transportation (stationed at the Command Center in Downtown Los Angeles) to Ham Shadow Net Control to me to Race Director to guy with starter pistol -- all within 10 seconds of DOT clearing the course.

It's a great opportunity being part of a large operation with multiple radio nets and exacting communication protocols. You will find that the art of listening is required more than talking, but they give frequent opportunities to do radio check-ins.

Please consider signing up -- I just did.

73,

Paul (KI6USA)

=========================================

News from the LA Marathon-Volunteer Edition

February 2009

Happy New Year from the staff of the LA Marathon. We have some exciting things to share with you.

Marathon Date/Course Change
Race to be held on Memorial Day - May 25, 2009

The 2009 Los Angeles Marathon promises to be the start of a new era, both for race participants and the entire Los Angeles community. We're building your race-and our organization that supports it-around the transformational power of sport, inspiring athletes and connecting communities. In that effort, we're pleased to announce that Honda has announced its return as presenting sponsor of the marathon and Acura is back as the title sponsor for the bike tour. We've hired Nick Curl, a respected veteran of the racing world who spent more than a dozen years affiliated with the marathon, as our race director. We are also announcing a return to a runner-friendly course, the old "loop" course that starts and finishes downtown.

In speaking to hundreds of runners in recent weeks, we've heard lots of comments about the race. All of those comments inform our decision-making process. One idea that we heard frequently and which we can implement immediately is to improve the race route. We are excited to announce that this year we will begin and end the race in Downtown Los Angeles. We're using the same popular course that was used from 1996-2006. This route highlights a variety of great neighborhoods throughout the city, sending participants through the Crenshaw, Koreatown, Hancock Park, and the Mid-City neighborhoods along the way. It also produced the fastest LA Marathon time to date-a 2:08:40 by Benson Cherono in 2006.

2009 LA Marathon Volunteers Needed
Online Registration Now Open

It is already time to start planning for the 2009 LA Marathon and we cannot do this without our wonderful volunteers!

The LA Marathon is looking for community assistance in the area of volunteering the week of May 18 to May 25.

Volunteer registration is available online at www.lamarathon.com. Volunteers can choose to sign up individiually or as groups. To register, fill out the online form and you will receive a confirmation email.

Registration is available for Race Week Office Support May 18-25, Run/Ex/09 Expo on May 23 & 24 and Race Day May 25. Details about your volunteer assignment will be emailed out to you in early May.

To register as an Individual, click HERE.

To create a Volunteer Group, click HERE.

To join a Volunteer Group, click HERE. (You will need the password provided by your group's leader.)

Contact Us/Questions

If you have any questions regarding volunteering for the 2009 LA Marathon, or are interested in working as a volunteer captain/coordinator please contact Stacy Embretson at (310) 271-7200 or via email stacy@lamarathon.com.

We hope that you will all join us for the 2009 LA Marathon.

Thanks for your support,

The LA Marathon Team

Ham Radio Licensing model being planned in Ojai Valley

2009-02-14T16:29:00.001-08:00

This web-site gives a good overview of what is being planned in Ojai Valley for Ham Radio Licensing.

http://w6nbc.com/

FEMA Publishes Ham Radio Credentialing Guidelines

2009-02-14T15:18:00.000-08:00

FEMA Publishes Credentialing Guidelines

Mon Jan 5, 2009 6:41 pm (PST) FEMA has issued Credentialing Guidelines for deployed personnel during disasters. The notice was published in the Federal Register on
December 24, 2008. There is a 30-day window for public comment on
this proposal.

Amateur Radio would be covered in SECTION 4-Voluntary, Charitable and
Not-For-Profit-Organizations. It just provides general guidelines
and encourages organizations to meet the standards of the local
agencies with which they work.

The docket identification is FEMA-2008-0015.

Here is the link:

http://www.regulations.gov/fdmspublic/component/main?main=DocumentDetail&o=09000064807df5d0

Ham Radio BookMarks

2009-02-14T15:04:00.000-08:00

The following are a list of useful web-sites for Ham Radio Reference







http--www.ir3ip.net-projects-standard-c528.mod.txt
National SOS Radio Network -- America's free, accessible-by-all emergency communications system.

Ham Radio Licensing Opportunity (Calabasas) 4/19/09

2009-02-08T22:45:00.000-08:00

The Lost Hills Disaster Communications Service is putting on another Ham Radio Licensing Class/exam in Calabasas - April 19th. The last one yielded 22 Ham Licensees for the Ojai Valley.

Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club are planning on replicating this program within the Ojai Valley, but my recommendation is to focus on this next class in Calabasas until further notice.

Ham Radio Programming Class (Calabasas) 2/10/09

2009-02-08T22:31:00.000-08:00

The Lost Hills Disaster Communication Service is holding an intro class for Ham Radio Licensees on 2/10/09.

Intro to Radio Communications (Saturday, 1/31/09)

2009-01-27T18:37:00.000-08:00

This Saturday, January 31st from 9AM to noon, the Ventura Harbor Community Council, the Ventura Port District and the Ojai Valley Amateur Radio Club will offer a free Radio Orientation class.

The Radio Orientation and hands-on use of all types of radios (FRS, GMRS, Marine, HAM) will all be covered.

The main class is Saturday, January 31st from 9-11am and those who want more hands on training can stay until noon. Holiday Inn Express - Windjammer Room (closest to Spinnaker).

Bring all of your radios for this very important activity.

You will learn about frequency bands and propagation limits, Emergency communications and practice. The Incident Command System that is used in ACS (Auxiliary Communication Service). The art of communication without adding or dropping important information. How to interact with the ACS, ICS protocol
What to say - when to say it - when to listen This is very important!!!
Net Operation, and I am sure much more - Bring your questions - the experts will answer them all.

The Holiday Inn Express hotel is providing the room at no charge for this event.

Please RSVP to this email Lynn Mikelatos at lynnmikelatos@gmail.com if you are coming. There is plenty of room so please bring friends who are interested.

Lynn Mikelatos, VHCC Chair
lynnmikelatos@gmail.com

PS: Those of you interested in HAM licensing (Both Technician and General) - information on a February class will be available.

Info for new Ham Radio Licensees

2009-01-20T22:06:00.001-08:00

Congratulations on your new

Ham Radio license!

What Radio Should I Buy?

January 27th @ 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

This class provides the new ham with information about radios in general, with “'show ‘n tell” by experienced hams.

* Now that I have my license, what do I do with it?
* What radio should I buy?
* Can't I just wait and take it out of the box when there's an emergency?
* What's a "net"?
* How do I use the radio from the car?
* How do I use the radio from my home?
* What did all that technical stuff on the exam mean, and how much of that do I really need to know?

In advance of the class, have a look at this page, put together by the PAPA Group: http://papasys.net/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=45&start=0&st=0&sk=t&sd=a.

How Do I Program My Radio? – and Other Stuff!

February 10th @ 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

This class provides hands-on individual instruction, where experienced hams show you how to program your own radio. The class is scheduled a week after the first class, so you have time to buy or borrow a radio. Instructors will bring radios for you to practice on if you still haven't bought one. Make sure your radio battery is charged, and bring the manual in case the hams aren't familiar with your model.

* How do I turn my radio on?
* What frequency do I transmit on?
* How do I key-in a frequency?
* I just want to talk to another local ham, not on a repeater - how do we set up our radios?
* I want to talk on a repeater - what settings do I have to know how to make?
* What repeaters can I talk on?
* What's a repeater input frequency? Output frequency? Tone?
* What's "tone mode?"
* How do I get my radio to memorize stuff?
* How do I get my radio to display a repeater name rather than just the frequency?
* What do I say when I want to talk to someone? Who's call comes first?

Both classes will be held at the

Agoura Hills/Calabasas Community Center

( 27040 Malibu Hills Rd – adjacent to the Sheriff’s Station)

Please R.S.V.P. to

Debbie Larson @ (818) 224-1600 or dlarson@cityofcalabasas.com

7th Ojai Valley CERT class starts Tues 2/24/09

2009-01-15T21:39:00.000-08:00

**** Correction **** First class starts Tuesday, February 24th

Considering the state of the economy, I'm extremely pleased to announce that County Supervisor Steve Bennett's Office will be sponsoring the 7th Ojai Valley CERT Class.

Beginning on February 24th for six Tuesdays from 7:00PM to 9:30PM, concluding with a final Saturday Class/Drill. Capt. Steve Lazenby (Santa Paula Fire Department) will be instructing.

Please register for the class by calling Cindy Cantle at (805) 654-2703 or email Cindy.cantle@ventura.org.

Location of CERT Class - Oak View Park and Resource Center, 555 Mahoney Street, Oak View.

Ham Radio Licensing on Sunday a big success

2009-01-13T20:42:00.000-08:00

Article is in Ojai Valley News -- Wednesday 1/14/09

The following are the newly minted Hams with callsigns:

KI6VBH Frangos, Zachary A
KI6VBI Grasel, Timothy G
KI6VCI Anderson, Cynthia H
KI6VCM Anderson, William
KI6VCN Bailey, Diana
KI6VCO Bailey, Jacob
KI6VCV Eller, Carrie M
KI6VCY Gordon, Scott
KI6VDA Harvey, Jimmy A
KI6VDC Herrera, Rene A
KI6VDG McLelland, Walter M
KI6VDH Miller, Gregory S
KI6VDI Miller, Kathlyn R
KI6VDJ Miller, Marvin D
KI6VDM Obradovich, Sherry L
KI6VDN Pedersen, Jean A
KI6VDS Rhodes, Michele
KI6VDT Williams, Kenneth E
KI6VDU Ross, Tuck
KI6VED Smith, Raymond J
KI6VEI Weiner, Martin H

Family Disaster Prep Seminar (Camarillo) 1/17/09

2009-01-10T12:48:00.000-08:00

For those of you can travel to Camarillo, or have friends/family there, please consider attending:

Family Disaster Preparation Seminar

Learn what plans you should make and what resources you will need to keep your family safe.

Saturday, January 17th, 9:00 am to 1:00pm (w/break)
Cost is just $5.00 per person or married couple, including workbook & snack
Register at the Information Center, at 805-482-5424 ext. 21, or at roybach@jubileechurch.org

http://www.jubileechurch.org/Groups/1000034029/Jubilee_Church/Ministries/Other/Disaster_Preparedness/Disaster_Preparedness.aspx

GMRS Radio Information

2009-01-09T23:21:00.000-08:00

In a past article I discussed GMRS Radio -- information provided by Tim Shates (WQDJ631)

http://ojaivalleycert.blogspot.com/2008/06/introduction-to-general-mobile-radio.html

Please check out his web-site at: http://tekk.us

Paul (WQJF339)

Ham Radio Licensing Opportunity ( 1/11/09)

2008-12-25T09:13:00.000-08:00

This is a great opportunity for those interested in earning a Ham Radio License (Technician Class).

The program includes:

-Easy study material prior to taking the day-long class

-Attending class from 10AM to 2PM (in Calabasas, CA)

-Taking the exam between 2PM and 3PM

-Discussing what you can do with radios between 3PM and 4PM. Costs are (in advance) $20, which covers Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks and $4 for the exam fee.

Please see above for more details. Sign-up now!!! The pass rate is very high -- if somehow you don't pass, who cares -- you can do it again soon after!!!

Sunvival -- emergency preparedness supplies

2008-12-25T08:46:00.000-08:00

Sunvival offers a new perspective on emergency preparedness and living harmoniously with nature. Most survival plans and resources focus on a 3 day duration. However, in disasters like Hurricane Katrina, or a major earthquake, survival skills and equipment for much longer than 3 days will be essential. Our mission at Sunvival is to help everyone be prepared for such events. Tools and skills needed for longer term emergency survival draw upon nature's renewable resources and can be used for fun in camping and everyday life.

Check out their web-site at: http://www.sunvival.com/home/