Training seminars set to standardize systems

Officials want to standardize operations of response and recovery efforts.
YOUNGSTOWN -- Training for area amateur radio operators to assist emergency personnel in disaster response will be 8:30-11 a.m. Jan. 14 and Jan. 21 at the Mahoning County Emergency Operations Center, 700 Industrial Road.
Training seminars for amateur radio operators are part of a nationwide effort to standardize operations and coordinate efforts of local, state and federal agencies in response to or recovery from a major emergency or natural disaster, said Walter Duzzny, Mahoning County Emergency Management Agency director.
Duzzny said after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C., and hurricanes Katrina and Rita on the southern coast of the United States, reviews by emergency management personnel showed a need to standardize the systems that would be called into use.
Part of plans
Most amateur radio operators are part of local emergency operations plans, and assist at emergency centers, hospitals and shelters, Duzzny said. The increased training offered by EMA gives amateur radio operators perspective on their value and their role in planning and preparation for emergencies, he said.
In November, 25 area amateur radio operators completed training through Mahoning County EMA and will continue training into 2006.
Training topics include needs and priorities of the incident commander, communications capabilities, legal aspects and potential liabilities for amateur radio operators. Additional training covers mobile operations, medical facility support and decontamination.
Amateur radio operators interested in participating may register training by calling the Mahoning County Emergency Management Agency at (330) 740-2200.