Amber Willard
HILLSIDE DISTRICT -- Using generators and solar power, local ham radio
operators will gather in Brace Canyon Park today for a national field
drill.
Burbank Emergency Amateur Radio Service members will be joined by the
APA Digital Communications Network, a group that uses computer
communication over ham radio frequencies, starting at 11 a.m. today
through 11 a.m. Sunday.
"This is an important test of ham operators and their readiness to
operate during a time of emergency," coordinator Rob Hanson said in a
written statement.
To practice their skills, the groups will race against others to see
how far their frequencies will reach and how many other operators they
can contact. The public is invited to observe.
The Burbank team is part of the city's Community Disaster Volunteer
program and would provide axillary communications if the city's system
failed during a crisis.
Brace Canyon Park is on Haven Way at Scott Road.
