FEMA ICS Course Requirements

In order to do any Boat Crew, Communication, Emergency Response, or pretty much any other cool job in the Auxiliary, you must complete the FEMA IS-100.FW and IS-700 courses. These are free, open-book courses you can take online. After you complete the courses and pass the tests save the certificates and emails that state that you passed them. You must submit a copy of the certs to FSO-IS so they can be entered into the system for you. For more information about which courses you need, and by when, see the official FAQ file on the matter.

Boat Crew Commandments

The very popular Boat Crew training program continues apace, but many members have had a steep learning curve figuring out the requirements. Wesley Freeburg, FSO-OP, prepared an excellent summary in the form of "10 Commandments for Boat Crew." Take a look at it, and follow up with Wesley if you have any questions.

For a schedule of upcoming Boat Crew training opportunities, check the training calendar on the Division 5 Member Services page. Then check it again every few days - these opportunities keep cropping up.

Had This Been an Actual Emergency...

...members of Flotilla 5-10 would have been able to establish reliable communication, thanks to the new flotilla emergency communication plan we tested in a drill at our March meeting.

Tactical Radio Nets

Our FSO-CM summarized this subject at a recent flotilla meeting, and also provided this excellent article from the Virginia Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service group. It's a long piece, but it's thorough, and the principles apply to all types of radio communication, whether for hams, Auxiliarists, CERT members, or public safety professionals.

Maritime Domain Awareness

MDA is a new Auxiliary program that combines aspects of AUXCOM and Program Visitor (formerly Marine Dealer Visitor) activities. By providing a regular presence and maintaining a positive and friendly relationship with marine merchants, we provide a channel for communication about suspicious activity, and help raise CG awareness of the 'normal' activity of the harbor. This program is a high priority for Flotilla 5-10, and a real opportunity to make a difference. Contact your FC to participate, or visit the Division site for more information.

Boat Crew Training

We've stepped up our Boat Crew training, since we expect to gain access to a well-equipped boat sometime soon. Fortunately, four flotilla members passed their Qualification Exam for this program at the end of October. Congratulations, folks! We may manage to hold some on-water sessions this winter, since the flotilla has acquired two sets of anti-exposure coveralls and we may have access to an all-weather vessel. Check your email for updates and details. To participate in the on-water portions of the training, you will need:
1) A current CGAUX ID card.
2) A Working Blue or ODU uniform.
3) A life jacket, at least Type III.
4) A whistle, signaling mirror, and strobe or chemical light attached to the life jacket.