HAM radio operators to hold field day in Jackson

The Southeast Missouri Amateur Radio Club and the Cape Girardeau County Emergency Management will participate in the American Radio Relay League Field Day from 10 a.m. Saturday until noon Sunday at Klaus Park on Outer Highway South in Jackson.

Operations will be set up in the Cape Girardeau County emergency services van.

The public is invited to learn about the mission of the group, known as HAM radio operators, in providing communication during a disaster or civil-defense activities. There will be opportunities for hands-on transmissions for youths and adults on the group's Get On The Air station.

The event allows radio operators to practice contacting other amateur radio stations around the country and world. If a disaster affects communications, club members may be called on by emergency management personnel to relay information to authorities or agencies throughout Missouri or neighboring states. Amateur radio operators are licensed by the FCC at different skill levels, allowing them to use different frequencies that can be used to relay information to the proper authorities.

More information about the group is available by calling 768-6075 or at semoarc.net.