Ham Radio
When we lose our phones for voice and texting along with the internet, there is
always HAM radio to provide communications. In an emergency, our South County HAM operators will provide communications between communities, assembly sites, and the Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
The following guides detail What is HAM Radio and 5 Easy Steps to becoming a HAM.
HAM radio operators have at their disposal a wide variety of radio frequencies. This capability ensures communication both locally, statewide, and nationwide. Communication methods ensure that emergency-related messages get through on the same frequency as someone chatting socially.
Each device that HAM Radio Operators talk on is a station. People can talk directly from station-to-station (simplex) or through a repeater that adds power and broader coverage (duplex).
You can buy a desk- or pocket-edition Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL) repeater directory to carry or keep in your GoBag. The Oregon Coast Repeater Group helps keep Ham repeaters in good working order for all of us.
Get licensed
HAM Radio Operators must pass a written exam and are licensed by the Federal Communications Commission. You can begin by obtaining a Technician license, gain more expertise and frequency coverage with a General license, or be a real pro with an Extra license.
You can find Online practice exams at
W5YI for Tech and General License. Extra packages includes a DVD for the PC and question-answer book by Gordon West.
Once you become a Ham
Join a Tillamook County Emergency Net. The South County Ham Emergency Radio Net is held every second Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm on Mount Hebo Repeater 441.300 (+5.0) t100.0. A Tillamook County wide Emergency Net is also held every Thursday at 7:00 pm on Mount Hebo Repeater 147.220 (+600) t100.0.
Join the discussion about Alternate Emergency Communications in South County. The STCEVC Communications Team meets the first Wednesday of the month, from 1:00 pm till 2:30 pm to discuss alternate communications in South County. Let us know if you are interested in joining the discussion.