Homeland Security Plan includes Ham Radio

The US Department of Homeland Security’s 2014 National Emergency Communications Plan (NECP) has incorporated Amateur Radio in its mix of media that could support and sustain communications in a disaster or emergency 

The ARRL reports the 2014 NECP is the first update since the original plan was released in 2008. The NECP is “the nation’s overarching strategic plan for enhancing emergency communications capabilities and interoperability nationwide,” DHS said in announcing the updated plan during November 2014.

[A]mateur radio operators…can be important conduits for relaying information to response agencies and personnel when other forms of communications have failed or have been disrupted,
— National Emergency Communications Plan (NECP)

The NECP also describes changes that lie ahead for emergency communication systems, such as 9-1-1 systems. “In the future, Next Generation 9-1-1 will enhance the capabilities of current 9-1-1 networks, allowing the public to transmit pictures, videos, and text messages that will provide additional situational awareness to dispatchers and emergency responders,” the NECP says.

Read the full ARRL story - 
http://www.arrl.org/news/homeland-security-s-2014-national-emergency-communications-plan-incorporates-amateur-radio

Homeland Security’s 2014 National Emergency Communications Plan (NECP) -
http://www.dhs.gov/necp