October 2026 Simulated Emergency Test
Emergency Communications Simulation & Community Training Event
Time: Saturday, October 3, 2026 Hours: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Sign-Up: https://bit.ly/operation-echo-2026
About the Scenario
Before dawn, a destructive derecho strikes West Michigan and Kent County. This is no ordinary storm—it’s a fast-moving wall of wind that can uproot trees, damage radio towers, and knock out power across the region. In the aftermath, cellular and Internet communications are unstable, and fuel availability is limited.
Local agencies need reliable, ground-truth information and radio-based communication support. Auxiliary communicators step in.
Operation Echo is inspired by the real May 31, 1998 derecho—one of Michigan’s most significant natural disasters—and gives participants the chance to experience how emergency communications function when the grid fails.
Who Can Participate?
Operation Echo is open to anyone interested in emergency communications, including:
- Amateur Radio Operators (HAM)
- GMRS Users
- Mesh Networking Enthusiasts
- Newcomers curious about grid-down communication
Whether you’re highly experienced or just getting started, there is a place for everyone.
Ways You Can Participate
We offer roles for all skill levels and abilities:
- Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Participants Support coordination efforts and help manage communications inside the EOC.
- Field Communicators Operate from vehicles or assigned locations to relay real-time situational reports.
- Home-Based Volunteers Check in from your handheld or base radio to provide neighborhood-level updates.
- Technical Operators Experiment with mesh networking, GMRS, digital modes, and other grid-down technologies.
No matter your experience level, you can contribute meaningfully to the exercise.
Why Participate?
Operation Echo is a hands-on opportunity to:
- Learn how communication works when traditional infrastructure fails
- Practice emergency radio skills in a realistic scenario
- Support your community’s resilience
- Connect with others who share an interest in emergency preparedness
Sign Up Today
Ready to take part in this county-wide emergency communications exercise? Register now at: https://bit.ly/operation-echo-2026
We look forward to training with you and strengthening Kent County’s emergency readiness together.