It was a big weekend for amateur radio enthusiasts, as ham radio clubs around the area participated in their annual field day at Henry Frank Park in Mishawaka.
“Every year, once a year, all of the amateur radio operators in North America – that’s Canada, United State and Mexico – have Field Day," Michiana Amateur Radio Club Secretary Barry Keating said. "Field Day is like open house for radio amateur operators. All of us get on the air."
Keating said for a 24-hour period, participants operate from remote locations using temporary antennas. They also operate off-grid, using battery or generator power rather than electric power mains.
“The idea is when all else fails, amateur radio is still able to operate," Keating said. "So, it’s a chance to see if we can operate under emergency conditions.”
That ability comes into play during local emergencies, where many amateur radio enthusiasts play a role.
“A lot of the people you see here are members of Skywarn, for instance," Keating said. "Skywarn are the amateur radio operators who watch when we have tornado warnings…they report exactly what’s going on on the ground – things that radar can’t see – directly to the National Weather Service."
Keating said Skywarn members take a training course from the National Weather Service and use the organization's standard terminology to report hail, heavy wind and other adverse weather conditions.
The annual field day also allows amateur radio operators to get their hobby into the public eye, demonstrating equipment and techniques to the community.
The Michiana Amateur Radio Club maintains a presence on Facebook. Area residents interested in learning more about the hobby can contact club members there.
Contact Kent atkfulmer@wvpe.org.
