[KYHAM] Re: BPL, Ham radio and the EOC

[N4AOF]

I think the #1 point to be learned from this thread (at least so far as 
emergency communications are concerned) is that simply having a back-up 
generator is a valid plan ONLY FOR AS LONG AS THE FUEL ON HAND LASTS.  If 
you have not planned to refuel the generator (including planning to shut it 
down for refueling if needed) then you have planned to end your operation 
when the fuel runs out.

The closely related #2 point is that your refueling plan has to include the 
strong possibility that your source of fuel may also be experiencing the 
same power failure as the EOC.

Then we get to....

> Any fuel can be handled safely or unsafely.  However, some fuels
> require more care than others, and some are less forgiving of
> the ocassional mistake than others.  And, since we're all only
> human, mistakes will eventually be made, especially when we're
> tired, worried, and sleep deprived, as is likely to happen in a
> disaster setting (or during field day).

Point #3.  If you have failed to handle points #1 & #2 properly in advance, 
you may still be able to get through it if you have enough luck to make up 
for the initial lack of competence -- but don't count on having the luck to 
suddenly find competence!