Towards the end of 2021 the Mangrove Emergency Planning and Communications Committee began to develop and subsequently rolled out a CB Radio Emergency Communications Network using a grant awarded under the Commonwealth Black Summer Bushfire Recovery program.
As part of this network there were two documents developed, the “Guide for Training and Use” and the “Quick Reference Guide”.
Several training and information sessions were held and these documents were issued to all attendees.
The Guide for Training and Use is a 32 page document that covers the basic and advanced use of the Base Station GME TX4500S, the two handhelds — GME TX6160XY and GME TX6600S as well as the GME XRS-370C and XRS-390C units fitted to vehicles.
Arrangements are being made for a MEPCC representative to hold distribution sessions so these documents can be issued to participants. It is planned to hold sessions at the Tree at Spencer and Mangrove Mountain Markets with dates to be advised.
Cycling the Batteries on CBs: Whether a base station or handheld, it is important to cycle the batteries. This is done by letting the batteries partly drain and then charged. For the base station this is done by leaving the CB on for two to three days but the power switched off at the powerpoint and for handhelds, keep the unit on for a day but not plugged in to a charger.
It is also recommended that the battery box for the base stations be opened and the terminals checked for corrosion.
Keith Aranjo
Secretary, MEPCC
[email protected]
