Duties of players at EOC's

The following are some general guidelines to assist players assigned to an EOC for an Exercise.

  • Players will usually be notified by the person in charge of each Emergency Operation Centre (EOC).
    • The amateur radio coordinator for the EOC will usually get notification from the EMO Regional Emergency Operation Coordinator (REMC).
    • Radio operator volunteers will thereafter be notified as required by the amateur radio coordinator for that site.
    • Those notified should verify receipt of the message.
    • Each side record details of the notification (time, by whom, message given).
    • Do not self-activate or attend prior to being called.  If in doubt, call the person above you on the call-out plan for verification.
  • Arrival at the EOC
    • Each EOC may have it's own procedure for entry based on location, security, etc.  Verify and follow procedure.
    • Report your arrival to the REMC or duty officer at the EOC, and then the amateur radio coordinator if on site.
    • Check the current Situation Report (or event board) to be updated on current situation.
    • If you are first to arrive for radio operations or are operating alone:
      • Check for messages for radio operator.
      • Verify radio operations, availability of logs, forms, other materials which might be needed.
      • Verify contact ability with Provincial EOC (PEOC) and advise of operator(s) in place.
      • Act on any messages as required.
      • Verify contact ability with other EOC's that may be activated within the Exercise if time permits.
  • Operational Cycle
    • Each EOC will have its own "Operational Cycle".   Often, this interval is set after the operational cycle of the PEOC has been set.
    • Communication ability to other Exercise EOC's should be verified between each operational cycle.  Often the PEOC will initiate this.
    • The radio operator or coordinator must be prepared to take part in the regular briefings as chaired by the REMC.  The communication status or any issues would be reported at this time.
  • Meals, breaks and relief
    • If the event will be for an extended period, start working on a shift schedule for other operators and notifications.
    • Each EOC usually provides meals and provisions for all participants during an exercise, but be prepared otherwise.
    • Every operator is encouraged to take frequent breaks.
    • If no relief is available for breaks, advise PEOC that your EOC will be off-air for a specified period, and report back when you are on-air again.
  • Logging and recording
    • Keep track of all contacts you make, significant events, messages sent or received
    • Use forms approved for use at your EOC.  They may use forms different than other locations.
    • Only if no forms are specified by your EOC, you can use the following:
      • To log radio contacts or messages, use the "Communication Log" (ICS 309 form).  Use a separate sheet for each operator.
      • To log significant events, personnel assigned, and activity, use the "Activity Log" (ICS 214 form - 2 pages).  Use one form for the entire event.
      • To pass messages, use the "General Message" (ICS 213 form).  Keep a copy and record delivery.
      • Copies and instructions for use of ICS forms is available at: ICS Canada Forms
  • Other duties
    • If qualified or trained, operators may be assigned to monitor or use other radios (TMR, Marine, etc.).
    • If other duties take you away from the IRG radios, notify PEOC of any absence, and your return.
    • Operators are free to use their own portable or mobile radios to maintain contact when away from the EOC radio location, but leave official communications with your relief if assigned.
  • End of Exercise
    • Participate or provide input for "hotwash" if held at end of event.
    • File logs or papers with designated person if required, or leave them in radio room.
    • Return radios, papers and supplies in order and ready for next exercise or emergency.
  • Operational notes
    • Focus on priority duties and ask for help if needed.
    • Do not distract others in the EOC from their duties - take side conversations outside.
    • Use plain language in all radio communications and avoid "radio jargon".
      • Avoid terms like "QSL", "73" - use standard language such as "Affirmative", and "Over".
    • Overuse of call signs is discouraged.  Operators are encouraged to use Tactical plain language name of the EOC being called to or from, and use their own call sign only at beginning and end of the "period of exchange of communication" or every 30 minutes if a long exchange (not at the start and end of every transmission!).
    • For more tips on effective emergency communications, view this document: