Become A Ham Radio Operator This Summer: Burlingame Class

The Burlingame Neighborhood Network (BNN) is inviting local residents to become trained amateur radio operators (Hams) this summer by enrolling in a licensing class on July 21 and learning hands-on skills in a workshop on August 11. Hams will play key roles during Burlingame’s sixth annual Citywide Emergency Drill on October 13 and will provide vital links to the outside world during actual disasters.

The licensing course will be led by Ross Peterson of the Bay Area Educational Amateur Radio Society (BAEARS) on Saturday, July 21, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Burlingame Recreation Center at 850 Burlingame Ave. in Burlingame. It is designed to help people pass the licensing exam for the first time or upgrade their existing license. More than 90 percent of those taking the exam usually pass it during the last hour of the class. Space is limited and pre-registration is required on the BAEARS website at baears.com. The course costs $35.

On Saturday, August 11, BNN invites new amateur radio operators, and those interested, to a brief Ham Radio Training Workshop from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Lane Room at the Burlingame Public Library at 480 Primrose Road, Burlingame. Experienced Hams will give an overview on basic amateur radio operation and will provide hands-on practice. They will also be available following the workshop from 10:30 a.m. to noon to answer individual questions and offer one-on-one coaching. Coffee and treats will be served.

Those attending the August 11 workshop are encouraged to bring their radios, if they have one. Those without radios can inspect a variety of handheld radio models on display that are available for as little as $35.

There is no charge for the Ham Radio Training Workshop, but pre-registration is required by sending your name and city of residence to info@burlingamenetwork.org. Preference will be given to Burlingame residents; others will be welcome if space is available.

For more information about BNN and Burlingame’s Citywide Emergency Drill, visit burlingamenetwork.org.