Monthly GRMS Nets
In a widespread emergency, our mobile communication networks are often the first things to fail. When the grid goes silent, how do we make sure our neighbors are safe, medical needs are met, and vital information gets shared?
On Anderson Island, we aren’t waiting around to find out. We are actively building our own safety net, one airwave at a time.
Every month, the Anderson Island Emergency Communication Group (AIECG) helps to keep us prepared. Led by Brian Ramsey, these monthly "nets" serve as a vital practice ground for our island’s zone leaders and neighborhood coordinators. It’s a dedicated time to dust off our GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios, check our signals, and ensure that we are ready for whatever comes our way.
Practice Makes Prepared
Each session kicks off with Brian introducing the net, setting the stage for an organized and efficient exercise. From there, he guides the group through a structured roll call of the leadership team.
One by one, zone leaders and neighborhood coordinators check in, practicing proper radio communication protocols. If you've ever used a walkie-talkie, you know it's not quite like talking on a cell phone; it requires clarity, brief pauses, and a specific rhythm. By practicing these protocols in a low-stress environment, our team is steadily gaining increased confidence. We are transforming what could be a chaotic scramble during a crisis into a calm, orderly, and highly effective communication network.
Why GMRS? Unlike standard cell phones that rely on vulnerable local towers and fiber-optic cables, GMRS radios operate on a direct, line-of-sight basis. This means even if the island's internet and cell service completely collapse, we can still talk to each other across neighborhoods.
Join the Network: Your Voice Matters
While our dedicated zone leads and neighborhood coordinators form the backbone of this emergency system, disaster preparedness isn't just a job for leadership—it’s a whole-community effort.
We want to encourage any and all members of the Anderson Island community to participate in these monthly nets. You don't need to be an expert, and you don't need a fancy setup to start listening in. Whether you already own a GMRS radio, are thinking about getting one, or just want to learn more about how our island stays safe, you are welcome here. AIECG offers great information about how to get and use a GMRS radio and the necessary license. Learn more here.
By participating, you aren't just learning a new skill; you are adding another vital link to our community’s chain of resilience. When a crisis hits, knowing who is nearby and how to reach them can make all the difference.
Let's keep our community safe, connected, and prepared. Grab your radio, listen for Brian, and we'll catch you on the next monthly net!