Basic Earthquake Emergency Communications Nodes (BEECN): Difference between revisions
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To address this, the Basic Earthquake Emergency Communication Node (BEECN) program provides 50 communication sites throughout Portland, where volunteers and city employees use durable amateur radio systems (HAM radio) to relay messages between local neighborhoods and the city’s [[PBEM Emergency Operations Center (EOC)|Emergency Operations Center (EOC)]]. '''Within 24 to 48 hours after the quake,''' BEECNs enable two-way communication, allowing residents to report damage, injuries, or request assistance, while also receiving critical response and resource information. These sites are not for emergency supplies or medical services, but rely on community volunteers to ensure their success and facilitate effective communication during a disaster. | To address this, the Basic Earthquake Emergency Communication Node (BEECN) program provides 50 communication sites throughout Portland, where volunteers and city employees use durable amateur radio systems (HAM radio) to relay messages between local neighborhoods and the city’s [[PBEM Emergency Operations Center (EOC)|Emergency Operations Center (EOC)]]. '''Within 24 to 48 hours after the quake,''' BEECNs enable two-way communication, allowing residents to report damage, injuries, or request assistance, while also receiving critical response and resource information. These sites are not for emergency supplies or medical services, but rely on community volunteers to ensure their success and facilitate effective communication during a disaster. | ||
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[[File:2025.05.16.BEECN Diagram.png|none|thumb|941x941px|''In the BEECN system, messages start at the BEECN site and are passed to the nearest fire station via UHF radio. The message is received by another UHF radio operator at the fire station, and they relay the message to a VHF HAM radio operator. The HAM radio operator relays the message to the radio room in the EOC. Messages can also travel in the opposite direction (i.e. from radio room to BEECN). Illustration by Hugh Newell.'']] | [[File:2025.05.16.BEECN Diagram.png|none|thumb|941x941px|''In the BEECN system, messages start at the BEECN site and are passed to the nearest fire station via UHF radio. The message is received by another UHF radio operator at the fire station, and they relay the message to a VHF HAM radio operator. The HAM radio operator relays the message to the radio room in the EOC. Messages can also travel in the opposite direction (i.e. from radio room to BEECN). Illustration by Hugh Newell.'']] | ||
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