WPV-CERT Radio Infrastructure

Font Size: + -

Feedback Print

Why Communication Matters

In every major emergency across the state and country, communication failures have been a critical issue. The Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) system ensures that CERT members, the Fire District, and key stakeholders remain connected when it matters most. As California wildfires have shown, being prepared and equipped with reliable communication tools can make all the difference in emergency response efforts.

For more information on obtaining a radio through the WPV-CERT program or learning about amateur radio resources, visit our WPV-CERT website. Stay connected, stay prepared, and ensure your readiness for any emergency situation.

WPV-Ready: Connecting with Neighbors for a Safer Community

In addition to the communication resources provided by WPV-CERT, WPV-Ready emphasizes the importance of getting to know your neighbors as part of being prepared for emergencies. In large-scale events like wildfires, power outages, or severe storms, first responders may face delays, so knowing who lives nearby and how you can support each other becomes vital.

WPV-Ready encourages residents to build relationships within their neighborhoods, creating a stronger sense of community. When you know your neighbors, you’re better equipped to share important information, check in on each other during emergencies, and provide help if needed. Simple steps, like exchanging contact information and discussing potential resources, can make a huge difference when disaster strikes.

Personal and neighborhood connections are key to staying resilient in times of crisis. For more tips on how to connect with your neighbors and enhance your community's preparedness, visit the WPV-Ready page. Together, we can create a safer, more connected community, ready to face whatever challenges may come.

Emergency Comms Infrastructure for WPV-CERT Members

Our goal is to ensure reliable communication during power outages, loss of cell service, and major emergencies such as wildfires or severe storms. This system is designed to allow residents, business owners, schools, and town government staff to stay connected when traditional communication methods fail. Radios are available to those who complete CERT training, providing a crucial tool for emergency preparedness and self-reliance.

Having a radio allows individuals to remain informed, coordinate with CERT teams, and care for themselves, their families, and neighbors when emergency services may be delayed during large-scale incidents. As history shows, one of the biggest challenges in disaster response is communication failure, and our system is designed to help mitigate that risk.

How the WPV-CERT Radio System Works

The WPV-CERT Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) system is comprised of multiple radio repeaters strategically located throughout the Woodside Fire Protection District. These repeaters are connected via microwave radio backhaul links and are powered by backup generators and large standby battery systems, ensuring uninterrupted operation during emergencies.

Linked Repeaters: Repeaters are located at Easter Cross in Emerald Hills and in Central Portola Valley. These repeaters are linked together and act as one, allowing seamless communication across the district.
CERT Coordination Channels: These channels are used by CERT Leadership for Command, Operations, Logistics, and Medical operations, facilitating communication with CERT teams in the field and Fire District personnel.
Fire Department Channels: Serve as a backup for internal Fire Department communications between personnel and units.
District Channels: Used for emergency communications between key community stakeholders, such as the Fire District, towns, schools, and organized communities.

Radio Access and Use

CERT members can purchase radios capable of operating on this system. These radios are vital for communication during CERT activations, where the repeaters will be used to organize and stage CERT personnel. Residents are encouraged to monitor the system, particularly during storms or other events where traditional communication systems may fail.

Weekly Practice Net: Every Tuesday at 7:30 PM, CERT members are invited to “check-in” and practice using their radios to ensure readiness for emergencies.
Primary Repeaters: WD1 (Easter Cross) and PV1 (Portola Valley) are linked together, allowing communication across the district. Choose the repeater with the best line of sight.
Special Event Repeaters: Additional repeaters (WD2, PV2, PVT, SK1) are activated for specific events or exercises.

Amateur Radio Resources

For those interested in further communication capabilities, several amateur radio resources are available:

Portola Valley Amateur Radio Club (KM6DLG): A group of knowledgeable operators, many of whom are WPV-CERT members. They have contributed to the design and maintenance of the WPV-CERT repeater system.
San Mateo County Sheriff’s Net: A repeater system operated by the San Mateo County Sheriff Communications Unit and amateur radio operators, used as a backup communication method with the Regional Operations Center.