Ham Radio Course Offered Locally

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Old-timey ham radios are used worldwide by hobbyists to chat globally, and in emergencies when phone lines are jammed or cell towers go down. They’re also a go-to communication tool for off-road enthusiasts who trek beyond the range of cell towers, knowing that CB radios may not transmit far enough to be useful in a way-out-there emergency.

But to operate a ham radio, you have to have an FCC license. And passing the test requires learning a bunch of stuff.

Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical is coming to the rescue, offering a series of three all-day classes this June aimed at preparing people for the test, with an option to take the test at the end of the third day. The classes run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on three consecutive Saturdays: June 15, 22 and 29.

“This class will familiarize students with ham radios and help prepare you to pass the FCC Technician Class License exam,” DMFM said in a statement. “This is the ideal class if you are interested in learning more about amateur (ham) radio, becoming a licensed operator, or if ham radio is part of your disaster preparedness communication plan.”

The classes will be held at Daisy Mountain Fire Station 145, 1120 W Desert Hills Drive. Cost is $40, which covers books and instruction, plus, if you wish to take the FCC exam on the last day of class, a $15 test fee (cash only—exact change only). Find more info and registration form here.

“Ham radio has repeatedly proven itself to be an effective means of communication particularly during a disaster and is widely used by hobbyists,” according to DMFM. “Whether you want to communicate locally or halfway around the world, this class will help you get started.”

Robert Roy Britt
NoPho resident Robert Roy Britt has written for In&Out publications since its inception in 2005. Britt began his journalism career in New Jersey newspapers in the early 1990s. He later became a science writer and was editor-in-chief of the online media sites Space.com and Live Science. He has written four novels. .

Robert Roy Britt

NoPho resident Robert Roy Britt has written for In&Out publications since its inception in 2005. Britt began his journalism career in New Jersey newspapers in the early 1990s. He later became a science writer and was editor-in-chief of the online media sites Space.com and Live Science. He has written four novels. .

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