Mid-Hertfordshire RAYNET

About RAYNET

The Radio Amateur Emergency Network - RAYNET - was established in 1953 to provide communications in times of disaster. The UK Amateur Radio Licence permits radio amateurs to handle "third party" messages for the user services - Police, Emergency Planning Officers, British Red Cross Society, St John Ambulance Brigade and other organisations (water / gas / electricity etc.) during emergencies and at public events.

RAYNET provides voluntary communications in support of user services for a wide range of public events such as marathons and charity walks. These events allow RAYNET operators to perform a useful public service, while practicing their communications skills. Services are provided free, but donations to cover operational expenses are not normally refused.

RAYNET has a country wide membership of volunteers organised on a county basis. Thus, any event too large for a local group to handle by itself can be staffed with the aid of operators from neighbouring groups.

Many RAYNET groups have equipment installed in county, district and borough emergency communication rooms, hospitals and some ambulances in order to provide a vital and first class service under emergency conditions. Exercises are held with the user services to practice emergency procedures.

RAYNET volunteers are licensed radio amateurs, dedicated, trained and insured for the provision of an efficient communication service. They are technically qualified in the installation, operation and maintenance of their equipment. When operating at events, RAYNET volunteers will frequently be using equipment personally owned by them. However, Mid-Hertfordshire RAYNET also has a Mobile Communications Unit, providing a professional event control station facility.

Contact the group controller, your local Emergency Planning Officer or County Emergency Plan Officer for further details, or learn about our activities this year.