This website will explore some of KØVAB’s interests in amateur radio. I will also share with you some of what I’m learning and applying in my emergency preparedness.
Amateur radio (also called ham radio) is a hobby enjoyed by an estimated two million people throughout the world. While the origins of ham radio can be traced to the late 19th century, amateur radio as practiced today began in the early 20th century.
Everyone involved with amateur radio has a different aspect of this hobby they enjoy most. For some, it’s tinkering with old vacuum tube radios and electronics. Others like building their own radios, or experimenting with antennas and radio wave propagation, and some like the contesting aspect of the hobby.
For me, it’s the emergency communication part that gets most of my attention.
Ham Radio in Emergency Communications
Recent disasters in the US and around the world have resulted in lost communications. Response to a disaster is made more difficult without effective communications. Ham radio has helped in hurricanes, tsunamis, wildfires, winter storms, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and terror attacks.
It has been rather fun reaching out and communicating (working) ham radio operators all over the world. Meeting other Hams in my area has convinced me these folks are some pretty high caliber people. Most are ham operators are eager to help others put their radio stations together or raising an antenna. If you’re new to the hobby, or even been around awhile, I recommend you find and join a local Ham Radio club and get active in your community.
