[KYHAM] KEN TRAINING For Dec. 8: Winter Issues Part 2

[Ron Dodson]

Last week we talked a bit about getting things ready for winter
at home.  This week we'll look at the vehicle and portable
concerns.  Like the home station, the mobile radio equipment and
antennas need to be checked for problems.  Check out your battery
and tires to see if any of them are showing signs that they need
replaced.  A thorough check of all external vehicle lights is
also a good idea! Low visibilities can create problems both in
seeing and BEING SEEN!

If you don't have one, a car survival kit is a good idea too.  A
set of spare clothing including gloves, head gear and a blanket
can become handy of you are stranded and need to guard against
hypothermia.  Some non-perishable food items and snacks along
with any needed medications are a good addition as is a good
flashlight, fire extinguisher and some tools.  A folding shovel
could be handy if you have room in the event you need to dig out.

The best defense in winter is current information.  Weather
systems sometimes come with days of advanced notice and other
times conditions do not pan out as were predicted. Check the
weather regularly for any changes from last night or this
morning's outlook.  Many VHF rigs, both HT's and mobiles, are
adding SAME Weather Alert technology to their bells and
whistles.  If you are looking at getting a new mobile for
Christmas why not buy one with this feature?   I own a few of
these and they are the greatest! 

Realizing that what was "familiar territory" in good conditions
can be a vast unknown in heavy snows can also save your life. 
Far too many die when attempting to walk that "short" distance
that was so easy last summer. It may not be a good idea to set
off on foot! Consider options and put safety first!

Now a quick look at going portable.  How are you set with spare
power sources for HT's and any "ARES Boom Box" type gear you
have?  Factory "standard equipment" ducks often lack the punch of
many home made and factory made full sized and "super-duck"
antennas.  Better antennas can let you use lower power and save
on those precious batteries!  One more thing, chargers.  Many
HT's have DC power cords, but what about 12 volt chargers that
really CHARGE a battery from a lighter socket? MAHA and some
other companies make universal chargers that not only speed
charge your batteries at home, but also have DC cords that work
well in mobile situations.  If you have a "Go Bag", winterize it
and add a few more items to add comfort during winter
operations.