How a GMRS Repeater United Our Community. 1 Year Anniversary!
- pinewoodlakewag
- Jul 23
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 26
On July 18, 2024, the Pinewood Lake community took a significant step toward enhancing our emergency preparedness. With invaluable assistance from several neighborhood HAM radio operators, we successfully installed a GMRS repeater right here in our neighborhood. GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) is a licensed radio service in the US, offering more power and range than typical FRS radios, making it ideal for robust community communication.
Little did we know how quickly its importance would become apparent.
Tested by Fire, Forged by Community
Within two short weeks of the repeater's installation, the Alexander Wildfire tragically erupted. During this stressful and uncertain time, many of our neighbors found themselves relying on the newly established GMRS repeater to communicate vital information, coordinate efforts, and check in on one another. It was a powerful and immediate demonstration of the repeater's potential to be a true lifeline when other forms of communication might fail.
Growing Stronger Together
Since that critical event, the interest in our GMRS community has soared. We've rallied over 30 neighbors and several friends from in town to join our growing network. This enthusiastic participation speaks volumes about our shared commitment to community safety and resilience.
To keep our skills sharp and our connections strong, we've been holding weekly nets. These informal gatherings are a fantastic opportunity for everyone to:
Test and practice communicating with their GMRS radios.
Ask questions about radio operation, emergency protocols, and more.
Make announcements relevant to the community.
These nets are more than just technical exercises; they're building blocks for a stronger, more connected Pinewood Lake. They foster a sense of camaraderie and ensure that when an emergency strikes, we're not just a collection of individuals, but a coordinated and capable community.
Looking Ahead: A More Prepared Pinewood Lake
Our journey with the GMRS repeater is just beginning. We are incredibly optimistic about continuing to grow the GMRS community within Pinewood Lake and beyond. Our ultimate goal is to establish a comprehensive emergency communications plan. This plan will empower our community to effectively utilize the GMRS repeater during an emergency, ensuring that information flows freely, assistance can be coordinated efficiently, and everyone stays safe.
The Pinewood Lake GMRS repeater is more than just a piece of equipment; it's a symbol of our community's proactive spirit and commitment to looking out for one another. We encourage anyone interested in learning more or joining our GMRS community to reach out! Together, we can build a more resilient and connected Pinewood Lake.
Want to learn more about GMRS, Click Here. Or email communications@plwag.org
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