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Communications Team: Scope of Practice

Mission


To develop unified, cohesive, robust, and efficient systems for communication before, during, and after a large-scale incident, possibly in the absence of everyday communications systems (cell phones, landlines, internet), during a lengthy power outage, and/or limited transportation or travel options


Pre-Disaster Activities


  • Participate in Anytown Prepares–sponsored training, drills, and exercises as their schedule allows. 


  • Provide communication support, information, and outreach at community events. 


Activation Timeline


1–2 hours post incident, as Ready Your Street responsibilities allow (e.g., take care of local emergencies first)


Post-Disaster Activation


  • Volunteers will report to the assigned primary or alternate Hub or information location after a disaster occurs according to recall procedures. 


  • Volunteers will submit a completed windshield survey for the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) upon arrival at their assigned location.


  • Volunteers may also support additional agencies, as directed by the Emergency Operations Center. 


Hours will vary based on the nature of the incident but will not exceed one 12-hour shift/24-hour period for a maximum of 14 consecutive days. 


Supervision Responsibilities


Volunteers will not be expected to supervise others unless specifically assigned as a team lead. 


Training and Orientation


  • Current Amateur Radio (Ham) license


  • FEMA IS-100 (An Introduction to the Incident Command System)


  • FEMA IS-700 (An Introduction to the National Incident Management System)


  • Practice using radios 


  • For drone operators:


    • Current FAA Part 107 certificate (pilots only)

    • FEMA IS-200 (Incident Command System for Initial Response)

    • FEMA IS-800 (National Response Plan)

    • First Aid/CPR 

    • Approval by the Chief Pilot

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