Disaster Power Management

One of the most fragile commodities in a regional disaster is the power grid. Power directly affects our ability to maintain communications as power drains away from our old reliable sources. Often overlooked as we prepare for disasters is our ability to stay on the air. With the grid down it’s very unlikely that you can recharge the batteries your hand-talkie came with. And even if you find a power source…..how long will it take to recharge the batteries?

Power, power, power will be the main concern during these emergencies. So how do we manage our communications to keep us on the air? Well the question has more than one answer, in fact our ability to stay on the air requires a number of actions.

AA Battery Inserts: So when you purchased that band new radio did you consider buying the AA battery insert? I guess the first question we should have asked, does your radio accept an AA battery insert?

These cheap little inserts replace the original battery that came with the radio and allows the use of ordinary AA batteries. But not all radios have this option, so it requires some research before you make that purchase.Check with your local amateur radio supplier and see if it's available.

Another point is the fact that these inserts are cheap compared to other accessories, so consider it your number one priority when buying a portable radio. Keep a stockpile of batteries at home, and rotate through that stock.

Cigarette Outlet Adapter: Another option to consider is the plug-in power cord for your vehicle. But one needs to remember that we are drawing power off your vehicles battery, which can leave you stranded if not recharged, so keep it in mind every time you plug in.

Output Wattage: So now were back to that owner’s manual we previously discussed. Do we know how to adjust the output power on our radio? As a general point of good operating procedures we should only be using enough power to maintain communications. But in a disaster this becomes imperative.

If we can access the repeater with one watt then why are we using 5 watts. The output power will directly affect the power drain on all of your energy sources, so be ready to turn it down to the lower wattage settings.

Conserve Usage: Your radio uses the least power when receiving. But keep in mind, it is still using power. So manage the time that you plan on monitoring. Many nets update situations at the top of the hour, thus allowing people to use their radios for shorter periods.

Report Those Things that need Reporting: Reporting that you have “no power” five hours into a blackout is probably un-necessary. Reporting the odor of natural gas in the area is probably a good use of that radio. Construct your transmissions in your mind before you hit the transmit button. The shorter the transmission the better. Don’t consume power on usage that has no direct benefit to you, or your community.

Solar: Many stores carry smaller, portable, solar panels that can be rolled out in an emergency. Most of the smaller ones can be used in the recharging of batteries. A solar panel large enough to directly power your radio is going to be much bigger. But hey, it’s a consideration.

If you have other ideas let us know in the comment section on our Facebook page.

Submitted By: Fire Captain Mark Grow, CVG Coordinator