Campbell River’s Emergency Communications Team Partners with Scouts for Worldwide Event
The Strathcona Regional District’s (SRD) Emergency Communications Team will lend its technical expertise and mentorship to Scouts Canada later this month as part of a global youth communications initiative. The collaboration will take place during the annual Jamboree-On-The-Air (JOTA) exercise, a worldwide event connecting Scouts through amateur radio. Scheduled for Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the event will primarily be held at the Campbell River Search and Rescue Hall. The SRD Communications Team will play a key role in helping local Scouts establish radio contact with other participants around the world — a unique educational opportunity that blends technology, teamwork, and hands-on learning.
Building Global Connections Through Radio
JOTA is one of the world’s largest annual Scouting activities, bringing together thousands of Scouts across continents through amateur radio networks. Participants learn to operate radio equipment and engage in real-time communication with other Scouts across borders and time zones. “We are thrilled to have such tremendous support and membership from SRD’s Emergency Communications Team,” said Shantall McFee, Scouter. “The use of amateur radio techniques offers an extra educational dimension for Scouts. Many grasp the opportunity to discover the world of wireless radio techniques and electronics.” This year, 16 Scouts from the Campbell River area are expected to take part in the event. The experience not only provides exposure to radio operations but also cultivates curiosity and technical literacy among youth participants. “It’s the sheer excitement of having a live conversation with a fellow Scout at some other place in the world that attracts so many young people to this event,” the release noted.
Emergency Communications Team: A Vital Community Role
The SRD’s Emergency Communications Team (ECT) plays a crucial part in ensuring reliable communication during emergencies or when regular systems fail. Members are trained volunteer Amateur Radio Operators who use their skills to transmit and relay vital messages during emergency situations, such as severe weather, power outages, or natural disasters. “The role of an Emergency Communications Team (ECT) member is to ensure that authorized messages are transmitted promptly and securely to their intended recipients, and that all incoming communications received are relayed to the intended recipient without delay,” the statement explained. The ECT serves as a vital “Plan B” when primary systems — such as cellular networks or internet infrastructure — are unavailable. In addition to amateur radio, the team also relies on commercial radio frequencies, satellite devices, and marine radio systems to maintain reliable backup communication channels. SRD’s team members are community volunteers who dedicate their time and technical expertise to support local emergency planning, response, and recovery efforts. Their involvement in initiatives like JOTA highlights how such volunteer networks contribute not only to emergency readiness but also to community education and engagement.
Encouraging Youth and Volunteer Participation
By assisting Scouts Canada with this year’s Jamboree-On-The-Air, SRD’s Emergency Communications Team is fostering the next generation’s interest in wireless communication, electronics, and emergency services. The partnership represents an opportunity for youth to witness real-world applications of science and technology while also understanding the importance of civic responsibility and preparedness. Events like JOTA also help bridge the gap between community organizations and public service teams. The collaboration allows Scouts to learn from experienced radio operators, while SRD volunteers gain a platform to demonstrate the value of emergency communication systems that often operate behind the scenes.
How to Get Involved
Residents of the Strathcona Regional District who are interested in emergency communications or volunteering can learn more about the program through the SRD’s official website. To learn more about the role of the Strathcona Regional District’s Emergency Radio Communications Team or how to become a volunteer, please visit: www.srd.ca/emergency-radio-communications-team.
