In a Report and Order (R&O) released Wednesday, July 14, the FCC stated that under new guidelines, amateurs employed by non-governmental agencies, such as hospitals, may participate and operate in drills sponsored by their employer. Specifically, the FCC will now permit Amateur Radio operators "to transmit messages, under certain limited circumstances, during either government-sponsored or non-government sponsored emergency and disaster preparedness drills, regardless of whether the operators are employees of entities participating in the drill." More information will be posted on the ARRL Web site.

-- www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=2010-07-15

Red Cross Encourages Safety During Excessive Heat American Red Cross As the temperature continues to increase as it is predicted to this week, the American Red Cross encourages individuals and families to take the necessary precautions for excessive heat.  The very young and the elderly are especially vulnerable to the heat so it is important that families and friends check on them regularly.  People with chronic health issues are also at greater risk and need to take special care to stay healthy in the heat.

Preventing Heat-Related Illness There are several precautions you can take to avoid heat-related injury and illness. • Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing (light colors reflect away some of the sun's energy) and use a hat or an umbrella.

• Carry water or juice with you and drink frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.

• Make sure to check on youth and elderly to make sure they have enough fluids....

Date:  Sunday, 11-Jul

Time:  1400 – 1700

Where:  Pt Robinson Lighthouse upper parking lot

Equipment:  CERT helmet and safety vest.  Long sleeve shirts and long pants with closed toe shoes or boots suitable for uneven terrain.

If you have an FRS, hand-held radio please bring it, if not we will have radios you can borrow. We have run two of these events before - once in December, it was cold and rainy, but fun.  Once at the end of May, it was heavenly.  We expect this weekend to be very enjoyable and we will learn a lot.

If you have any questions, please call Catherine at 463.4558. She can send you the Training Authorization for this Sunday's training.  It contains many details such as time, place, agenda, equipment, communication.

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