Emergency 911 repeater expands radio communications

News Article

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is upgrading and improving its Emergency 911 (E911) two-way radio network within the Kaleden Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) response district. A repeater system is in the process of being installed adjacent to the Kaleden Aerodrome Beacon site located on Greyledge Mountain. The RDOS is working with KVFD, property owners, Kaleden Irrigation District, engineers and subject matter experts to ensure the project's success.

“This new repeater system is required to enable KVFD to communicate safely within its Fire District and Road Rescue areas,” stated Electoral Area “I” Director, Subrina Monteith. “Currently the communication ability in some areas is intermittent or non-existent due to the geographical landscape.” KVRD Fire Chief Denis Gaudry says the department is “extremely happy” this work is being done. “The need for good communication is key to incident response and to the safety of the general public and fire department members,” says Gaudry.

This communication project will not emit frequencies on the 5G band (5th generation mobile network). Instead, the system will use VHF/UHF frequencies as a primary form of communication waveband which is used by Police, Ambulance, Fire Departments, Search and Rescue, and for private industry and personal use. “Completing this project means KVFD will have improved communication throughout the Fire District, Road Rescue and Medical First Response boundaries,” says RDOS Chair Karla Kozakevich. “This will result in improved safety for residents and first responders.”

On Tuesday, May 11, 2021 physical construction works will commence at the top of Greyledge Mountain next to the current Kaleden Aerodrome Beacon site. Contractors will be drilling anchors in the Bedrock in preparation for the arrival of the Communications Shell. On the morning of May 14, 2021 (weather permitting), a medium-sized helicopter will lift the 3,300 lb (approximately 1,500 kg) Communication Shell and supporting equipment from the KFVD training grounds to the final location.

There will be significant noise from the helicopter which will be audible throughout Kaleden. The public is asked to stay away from the training grounds and the vicinity around Greyledge to ensure site safety. Construction crews will be accessing the site between May 11 – 28, 2021 to complete the electrical and emergency communication equipment transition from the Kaleden Fire Hall to the new location.

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Karla Kozakevich, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

Contacts:
Sean Vaisler
RDOS Emergency Services Manager
250-490-4380

Erick Thompson Andrea Rendall
RDOS Communications RDOS Communications
250-490-4211 250-490-4147
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