West Contra Costa Emergency Radio Group: Staying Connected During Disasters

Photo Credit: Maurice Tierney for Richmondside / Jay and Karen Fenton

(WEST CONTRA COSTA, CA.) – A volunteer network of amateur (HAM) and mobile radio operators called the West Contra Costa Emergency Radio Group (WCCERG) aims to provide emergency communications when other systems can’t. The goal is to keep communities connected during crises and natural disasters like massive earthquakes, fires, chemical threats, power outages, cellular failure, and terrorist attacks.

HAM radios will work even when electricity, cell towers, and internet services are down or overloaded. This way, operators can still communicate with emergency personnel, contact other volunteer operators, and share important updates and alerts across various neighborhoods. Most members of the WCCERG maintain solar power battery systems to ensure their equipment is always ready, even when traditional power sources are out.

Karen and Jay Fenton, key leaders in the WCCERG, made their home one of the group's key communication hubs. The Fentons have solar-powered radios, rooftop repeater antennas, easy-assemble portable antenna towers, and a mobile solar charging station at their location. 

Photo Credit: Maurice Tierney for Richmondside / HAM radio and other equipment

The WCCERG works with CERT, and all radio operators are FCC licensed to ensure responsible operations. Training is required to teach operators proper radio procedures, ensure clear communication, and appropriate response to disasters before they can operate the device. WCCERG wants to bring order to chaos during emergencies by providing valuable emergency information and remaining as organized as possible.

Richmond City Council member Sohelia Bana praises the WCCERG for creating a citywide emergency communications network that works directly with the Richmond dispatch center. Bana also noted how the WCCERG continues to recruit volunteers, which can only help increase disaster preparedness and contribute to faster recovery times.

The group currently has volunteers in Richmond, Kensington, El Cerrito, and surrounding communities, but is hoping to expand its reach to Pinole, Hercules, and Rodeo.

To add to or correct any information in this report, please contact me at kristin.h@lead4earth.org.