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Communications Officer -
Developing Communications Skills
Basics
Learn the
regulations! CAPR 100-1 VI answers most questions asked by CAP members
in regards to communications. Next, learn about the CAP forms,
especially the CAPF 110 and CAPF 105. These two forms should be well
understood. Remember CAPR 100-3 as this regulation is a great reference
for busy times on the radio. It would benefit all squadrons to have
copies of these documents available in the communications room for quick
and easy reference.
Communication Modes
Communicators should utilize every means available, as suited to the
mission at hand. VHF, ISR, HF, Internet, Phone, or fax should be used
if one method is unavailable or unreliable at that time. Remember that
things change. Just because you could not get through last night does
not mean you cannot get through this morning. Make it a point to
revalidate your modes of communication.
Who
Communicates?
We all
communicate. Aircrews, ground teams, radio officers, you name it. If
you find yourself in need of assistance in the radio room, make it a
point to schedule those participating to spend at least 15 minutes in
the communications room. Not only will it provide a much-needed break
at times, it also provides valuable practice, which many members do not
get.
Learn About Communications Methods – Delve Deeper
Learn
about the different modes of communications. Do not just learn about
them, learn how they work. Delve a little deeper than turn this one,
press that switch. By learning a little more about how these modes of
communication work, you will be much better suited to troubleshoot what
may or may not be taking place when experiencing a problem. In a true
emergency, this can make all the difference.
Practice Away From the Comm Room
If you
rarely use one mode, make it a point to use it. For example, if you are
always on VHF, but never talk on HF, make it a point to work the HF
nets. If you have never setup an emergency station, give it a shot.
Work the next exercise out of a tent or other shelter. Make it a
training opportunity for yourself as well as those in the squadron.
When the emergency station is needed is not the time to be figuring out
how to do it. |
