Raynet, the Radio Amateurs Emergency Network.

The principal role of Raynet in an emergency is to provide radio communications for those services which require additional facilities to meet the situation. Some voluntary organisations have no radio communications of their own and may rely entirely on Raynet. Specifically, Raynet may pass messages on behalf of the Chief Emergency Planning Officer (CEPO), Police, Fire and Ambulance services, Health Authority, Public utilities and Government Departments, the British Red Cross Society, St John Ambulance Brigade and the St Andrew's Ambulance association. Through CEPO assistance may be given to local Councils and voluntary organisations which he may wish to use.

Raynet played a major part in the widespread search following the Lockerbie disaster. More typically Raynet Groups are called upon to provide radio communications at such occasions as emergencies due to fire, flood and other incidents.

Raynet is comprised mainly of licensed radio amateurs willing to put their own radio equipment and their services at the disposal of the emergency services. There is also important work for those who wish to assist but do not hold an Amateur Radio licence.

As part of their training and to keep in practice, Raynet members often provide radio communications at public or club events, assisting one or other of the voluntary ambulance organisations (or other "user services") and by so doing widen the cover which they can provide. Typically, at e.g., a half marathon road race, there may be an ambulance with crew plus a first aid team and as many as a dozen Raynet stations at points around the course ready to report casualties or people in need of medical assistance.

For more information on Strathclyde Raynet contact the Group Controller - See home page for contact details.

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