MELBOURNE, Fla. — Ham radio operators become vital when normal communications go down in storms, and to raise awareness about the role they play, the Platinum Coast Amateur Radio Society is holding its annual field day this weekend.
What You Need To Know
- As hurricane season kicks into gear, local amateur radio operators can be vital if power is lost
- The Platinum Coast Amateur Radio Society is holding its annual field day this weekend in Melbourne
- Group leaders say the field day is an opportunity for operators to practice their skills
The day is a chance for operators to test their radios in the field, and also compete to see who can reach the most fellow hams across North and South America.
The society works closely with the Brevard Emergency Operations Center and the Melbourne Fire Department to help keep communication going during an emergency.
“Whatever the conditions are — hurricanes, earthquake, flood, fire — amateur radio always comes through and is always available to help,” said Vince Weal with the Platinum Coast Amateur Radio Society.
The field day is being held from 2 p.m. Saturday until Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Melbourne Fire Training Center.
The event is free and open to the public.