TOday is Thu. Mar. 31, 2011 
 
Spring is in the air, or at least in the hearts and minds of those
of us residing in the northern hemisphere.  Plans are afoot to
service those antennas and support structures as soon as weather
permits.  FOr some of us plans are underway to add new antennas and
supports as well.  

Cabin fever is also raging.  we're itching to get outside and move
about.  THat sky hook needs attention; the fish are biting; flowers
will be blooming and many chores and leisure activities await us
when weather permits.  IN your excitement to get to these things
don't neglect proper safety precautions and procedures.  

FOr the radio op who plans to do some antenna installation and
servicing:

Check out that climbing harness before you climb.  WHile checking
it out make sure you have adequate safety ropes and other gear to
do the job.  

While planning your antenna servicing and installation plan to
include a buddy or two.  Enlisting the aid of another like minded
individual will help you work safe.  YOu might return the favor for
him as well.    Make sure that you've a hard hat for him to wear if
you're working topside and he's on the ground.  

AGain, make sure that haul or safety rope is able to handle the
load.  IF you expect it to handle 100 pounds make sure it will
handle 300.  THe life you save might be your own, or that of a
close friend.  Be sure to check out all ropes and safety equipment
before you use it.

WHen undertaking other outdoor activities in the wild make sure
that your portable and/or mobile station is operational.  IF you
haven't used that handheld radio get it from the drawer or other
hiding place, check out its battery power source, recharge or
replace if necessary.  

IF you're venturing into the boondocks make sure your vehicle is
equipped with signal flags and flares as well as some rudimentary
tools, a jack and a properly inflated spare tire.  

Also remember if venturing out onto the open road or into the back
country that old man WInter might not be done yet.  HE might have
some life left in him. Carry along some spare blankets, some dry
clothing and other winter survival gear, including a shovel.  HE's
reached out to get this writer's attention more than once when he
was forgotten and spring was in the air.  

FInally, and most important, if venturing to some out of the way
place to do some hiking fishing or other wilderness activity don't
forget to let a friend or family member know where you plan to be
and when you can be expected to reappear in civilization again. 
Even if taking that spur of the moment trip into the back country
on a weekend let someone know where you'll be and when you can
be expected to return.  IT might save your life.

IF your transport is disabled or you're unable to return, stay near
your vehicle or campsite.  USe the usual wilderness protocol vhf
and uhf frequencies as well as other locally available frequencies
to summon aid, and other signaling devices available as well. 
STaying near your campsite or disabled vehicle allows those
searching for you to come to your assistance sooner.  Don't wander,
stay put!  IF you prepared adequately staying in place shouldn't
present a problem.  STationary targets are easier to hit, and
if you're the object of a rescue mission you're the target.
USe radios and visual signaling devices to summon help and stay
where you are!


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 * Origin: RRN BBS: Your fidonet ham radio connection! (1:116/901)