[Scan-DC] More D.C. FD Radio Problems

[Steve Rigby]

pS wrote:

 > The first problem probably was caused by falling into a dead
 > spot within a building. Or it might have been caused by doubling
 > if they were on a direct channel. The 2nd problem was probably
 > caused by doubling - how else can you explain the loss of
 > communications at a distance of 40 feet between 2 radios
 > operating on a simplex channel?

   There does exist the distinct possibility that the two radio
problems outlined in that article from the Washington Times were
related to human error or, in the first case, a damaged radio.  The
firefighter had fallen through the ceiling, and his or her radio
could have been thus broken or its parameters could have become
altered from impact, as opposed to some 'dead spot' or other RF problem.

   I think that Chief Few should have been terminated immediately
after the discovery that his resume  had been 'enhanced,' i.e., he
had lied.  But, that said, he should not be held directly and
personally responsible for radio communications difficulties or
failures wherein the actual cause has not as yet been determined.

   Steve