Unauthorized or Unconfirmed Information and Rumors

The Sago coal mine explosion in West Virginia in January 2006 was the basis for a training topic with the Summit County ARES® group.  The topic is as valid today as it was in 2006.  The following is a updated version of what was presented in January 2006 .  

During a coal mine disaster, miscommunication with the rescue crews resulted in the initial belief that there were a large number of survivors. What initially appeared to be good news rapidly spread through the use of cell phones. The corrected information of only one survivor was not immediately released.

Fortunately, amateur radio was not part in this incident. However, it is very easy to picture a similar situation involving amateur radio operators. We always have to be alert to what we say over the air.

Amateur radio should not be responsible for the spread of unconfirmed information or rumors.  We must also think about how the words we use could be misinterpreted. “We need more bodies over here.” may not be the best choice of words to use over the air.

Always think about what you are saying over the air.  There can always be media and others listing to amateur communications.  Never pass unauthorized information or your personal comments over the air when working emergency communications.

zeke, AB8OU