Genesee County Amateur Radio Emergency Service, Inc.

 GCARES

LEAD OPERATOR PROCEDURES

 

This document is to clarify the need to properly name the position of Lead Operator as to not confuse it with other positions already in use, and to clarify the duties.  This also is to structure what procedures are now being used.

 

The Lead Operator is responsible for bringing up the appropriate MACRO for the type of net needed for an activation.  Again if a lead operator is not available the same protocol established in the past will remain in effect.  If an operator who has received the “page” is to put out a general call.  “Is there a lead operator on frequency?”  Then wait before putting out a second call for a lead operator.  If no lead operator replies, then bring up the appropriate MACRO and start the net.  The person bringing up the MACRO shall notify the EC, or Deputy EC, on their cell phone and leave a voice mail message indicating who brought up the MACRO and for what purpose. 

 

The first lead operator on the scene has control of the event with respect to ARES operations and their title will be lead # (which the # sign refers to the lead operators, lead number).  For example:  Lead #4 shows that Mike, KD8BZZ, is assuming Lead 4, if the first lead operator was Dale, KC8ZXF, he would be assuming lead 2.  This operator would be in charge of mitigating ARES manpower and resources.  This person also needs to be aware of operators who are ICS trained and can take various assignments.  Like other ICS operations, this position may be transferred to another lead operator if needed. 

 

The first operator on scene checks in with the trailer, and then teams up with the IC.  This person may or may not be a lead operator but since that is the first position that needs to be filled, that person will fill that position first.  Once the first lead operator is on scene, that person may take the trailer or any other assignment and their tactical call will be the position, which is covered.  When checking in with NCS, the notification should go as follows:

 

                 BZZ:        This is KD8BZZ with the trailer, if the IC is in it.

                 NCS:       Have you in the trailer at 18:23.

                 BZZ:        Also be advised that I’m assuming Lead 4 . . . KD8BZZ.

                 NCS:       I show you as Lead 4. 

 

Lead Operator List

 

L1            N8HXQ                   Greg Ybarra

L2            KC8ZXF                 Dale Collins

L3            KF8UI                      Clay Hewitt

L4            KD8AYL                Jerry Baker

L5            KD8BZZ                Mike Vogt 

L6            N8VDS                    Randy Bond

L7            K8RWB                   Bob Byler

L8            KB8RVP                Mike Schafer

L9            KD8FQB                Dave Kelly

L10          WA8OGJ                Greg Allinger

 

This will reflect their lead number and is to let NCS know what role the lead operator will be doing on scene.  In this example, their tactical call sign will still remain as “trailer”.  In short, the lead operator will be taking charge of all the background duties associated with ARES operations.  If the situation escalates and more operators are needed at the scene, the lead position may be a position by itself.

 

The lead operator status shall be determined by the EC by appointment.

 

                 A.  Input from other lead operators will be strongly encouraged.

                 B.  Appointment to a lead operator position will be on a trial basis.

 

In short, a lead operator can take control of an event.  NCS takes control of the frequency.