Message Traffic Handling A Very Brief Overview

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Message Traffic Handling A Very Brief Overview

• Marty Woll N6VI

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The Message is Paramount!

• Accuracy trumps speed
• Errors can have serious consequences
• Getting the message through
• is what we do!

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Formatting is Key

• Radiogram format predates radio
• Landline telegraphers - Western Union
• Format survives for a reason
• IT WORKS!

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Preamble helps the handlers

• Number
• Precedence
• Handling instructions (optional)
• Station of origin
• Check (word count)
• Place of Origin
• Time filed (optional)
• Date filed

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Precedence (high to low)

• Emergency
• Priority
• Welfare
• Routine

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Addressee

• Full name
• Title or position, if applicable
• Physical address
• Telephone number
• e-mail address, if applicable

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Text Short Messages Are Effective

• (Red Cross)
• SEND SHELTER KIT FOR 500
• (Incident Command or Medical Officer)
• NEED FIELD HOSPITAL AND TEAM FOR 1000 CASUALTIES
• SEND SIX 10ML VIALS OF
• REGULAR HUMULIN TO FIELD HOSPITAL
• AT BEAVER HOLLOW SHELTER ASAP

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Text Short Messages Are Effective

• (IC Operations)
• NEED TWO TYPE TWO CREWS ON NORTH FLANK ASAP X
  ACCESS VIA RED ROCK RD
• REQUEST WATER TENDER TO CAMP
• SIX STAGING AREA
• Desk function plays an important role in
• making originated messages efficient

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Authenticate All Messages

• Agency officials supply the content
• Official messages should be written signed
• Include originators contact information

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Traffic Donts

• Do not edit or fix approved text
• Avoid originating disaster traffic
• Avoid confidential message content
• - No death notifications
• - No names of shelter occupants
• Amateur transmissions are not secure
• Dont spread rumors or talk to press

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Resources

• ARRL
• Public Service Communications Manual
• ARES Manual
• EMCOMM.ORG
• Emcomm Monthly