Scavenger hunt will help radio operators prepare for terror drill.

Amateur radio operators took part in a scavenger hunt last weekend, seeking information rather than hub caps or cowboy hats, in an exercise designed to get them acquainted with Southeastern Connecticut before a major emergency drill next month.

Wayne Gronlund of ARES, who is coordinating the event, said he is trying to put together at least 50 amateur radio enthusiasts for TOPFF, a weeklong exercise that will include simulated terrorist attacks on ports in New London, New Jersey, Canada and the United Kingdom.

Using a scavenger hunt as a mechanism, the hams were send around New London County to find key areas where they might end up providing support or places they might have to stay away from because something is happening there, also to get them familiar with the area.

20 to 25 teams of two or three people were shuttled around the region in a car equipped with VHF-FM radio looking for 12 sites based on photographic clues and maps that they were issued.

Just another fun Ham Radio weekend?

NO!

TOPOFF, which stands for Top Officials, will take place April 4-10, involve up to 10,000 people and cost an estimated $16 million!!

(published news reports/packet radio bulletin)

Source: Wireless Institute of Australia

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