Overview
During disasters, man-made or natural, the normal communications infrastructure can often be
disrupted. Red Cross Radio Operators may be called upon to provide emergency
communications support through the use of voice and/or digital radio communications.
As such we need to build skills and knowledge among our operators allowing for clear, effective
communication.
This document identifies core skill goals for Winlink digital messaging in support of the
American Red Cross, divided into Basic, Independent and Advanced levels.
| Operator Skill Levels | |
| Basic | Communicator has the basic skills which meet the knowledge and performance skill goals. |
| Independent | Communicator has intermediate knowledge and skill and is capable of independent operation, without coaching or assistance, in the qualified skill goal area. |
| Advanced | Communicator has more advanced knowledge and skill and is considered a subject matter expert. May act as a communications lead and/or mentor. Capable of more difficult assignments, requiring more equipment and more complicated configurations, operations and troubleshooting. Is able to deploy and operate for an extended duration. |
Abbreviations, Acronyms and Terms
| General Abbreviations |
and Terms |
| ARC | American Red Cross |
| ARDOP | Amateur Radio Digital Open Protocol |
| ARES | ARRL Amateur Radio Emergency Service |
| EMCOMM | Emergency Communication |
| FLMSG | Fast Light Message |
| NBEMS | Narrow Band Emergency Messaging Software |
| P2P | Peer-to-Peer |
| RMS | Winlink Radio Mail Server |
| SDA | San Diego ARES |
| WL2K BOK | Winlink Book of Knowledge |
| WL2K HELP | Winlink Express application’s integrated Help documentation |
To view more information visit Warrick County ARES RACES
American Red Cross Winlink Proficiency
Emergency Radio Communications
