2026 Annual Emergency Communications Simulation Results
RESULTS: Emergency Communications Simulation - March 28, 2026
An annual Emergency Communications Simulation for a mock-incident in the West Richland Stake (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) was conducted on March 28th, 2026. GMRS radios were used for all communications. Church members were contacted in person with a welfare and security check early in the morning, with results and status (including assigned mock emergencies and medical situations), reported to stake and then Area Leader,s within a three-hour time window.
The exercise went well. More people were involved, and each ward unit was better prepared than in previous years, with many more leaders and people involved in interacting and in organizing (simulated) relief efforts. There were 785 in-person contacts made out of 1,247 households, meaning that 63% of all member households were reached in person within two hours (with almost all of the household doors being knocked on - with some not answering, likely due to the early 8 am hour).
Thank you for your support. Leaders believe the local wards and neighborhoods are better prepared to respond to an actual emergency, and that the exercise gives us areas to improve on in preparing for the next simulation exercise (or actual incident). Assigned GMRS channels & frequencies for Stake & Ward use are listed here - in the Radio tab | Handouts - (see "2026 West Richland Stake Channels PDF").
Emergency Communications Guidelines - LDS Church
During a disaster, normal means of communication may become inoperable; however, the need to communicate with Church leaders, missionaries, members, employees, civil authorities, and others is greatly increased. in wards and stakes.
This link outlines the established guidelines from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for emergency communications.
GMRS Radio Training for Stakes & Wards
Elder Dave Carlton presents a 3-part training via Zoom, for Church Emergency Response Communication specialists, and radio enthusiasts. The focus is on GMRS radio networks based in wards and stakes.
Elder Dave Carlton presents a 3-part training via Zoom, for Church Emergency Response Communication specialists, and radio enthusiasts. The focus is on GMRS radio networks based in wards and stakes.
Ham Radio Crash Course
Ham Radio Technician Prep Intro (2022-2026)
About Ham Radio Crash Course:
Started by Josh Nass (KI6NAZ) as a YouTube channel,
Ham Radio Crash Course (HRCC) has evolved into a rapidly growing community of radio enthusiasts that are excited to grow in the hobby, and help others grow as well.
