FAQ: Kent County SKYWARN and KCEST Integration
Membership and Application
Q: How do I apply to KCEST to renew my team membership?
A: Applying involves three steps:
- Visit kcest.org/join and click the link under Step 1 to enter your name and email. You will be emailed the application packet.
- When applying, select “KCEST” and the “RACES/Auxcomm” unit (the communications unit—you do not need to select the search and rescue unit).
- You may list any Skywarn leader as a character reference on your application. Contact information is available on Spotter Connect.
Q: Do I need to join Search and Rescue (SAR) to be a Skywarn spotter?
A: No. Kent County Skywarn team members will be part of the communications unit (Comms), not SAR. KCEST provides multiple volunteer services, including general volunteering, SAR, and communications. Skywarn falls under the communications service line.
Q: What checklists do I need to complete to maintain Skywarn membership?
A: You do not need to complete SAR checklists. Here are the relevant checklists:
- Kent County Office of Emergency Management: All volunteers
- Kent County Emergency Services Team: Communications Unit Level 1
- Kent County Emergency Services Team: Communications Unit Go-Kit Level 1
- Kent County Emergency Services Team: Skywarn
Q: Do I need to complete the checklists before applying?
A: No. Completing checklists is a process that takes about a year and does not need to be completed before applying as a KCEST team member.
- Kent County Office of Emergency Management: All volunteers – Within 6 months of being approved
- Kent County Emergency Services Team: Communications Unit Level 1 – Within 1 year of completing your KCOEM Required Training
- Kent County Emergency Services Team: Communications Unit Go-Kit Level 1 – Within 1 year of completing your KCOEM Required Training
Q: Why are team member requirements changing?
A: To align with the new emergency management coordinator’s standards and practices of other teams, background checks will now be required for full team membership. While this adds requirements, it also provides opportunities such as training and certifications (e.g., AUX-C, COM-T, COM-L). Members can also explore other volunteer paths, including SAR, CERT, and damage assessment.
Q: If I only plan to be a weather spotter from home, do I still need to apply as a full communications unit member?
A: No. If you plan to be a home-based weather spotter, the only requirement is completing NWS Skywarn training. Full communications unit membership is optional.
Q: If I’m only interested in severe weather, should I apply to be a full communications team member?
A: It’s optional. If you wish to limit your involvement to Skywarn nets, you can remain a trained spotter and participate in nets without joining the communications unit.
Operations and Training
Q: Do I need to have a background check to be a net controller in my basement?
A: No! If you will not be accessing the Kent County EOC, Dispatch Center, or secure systems, or becoming a full member. (For example, if you will only be a net controller working at home to run a net operation.)
Q: Will we still have GMRS Skywarn nets?
A: Yes! GMRS Skywarn spotters provide valuable community service, and we will continue to invest in the GMRS community to support its growth.
Q: With the new focus on Zello and GMRS, are amateur radio operations being scaled back?
A: No. Amateur radio operations will be expanded. KCEST is building an Emergency Operations Communication Center (EOCC) with both amateur radio and GMRS capabilities. This facility will enhance communication during emergencies by providing a centralized hub for coordination, allowing for seamless integration of various communication technologies to support disaster response and public safety operations. Amateur radio remains a critical part of Skywarn operations.
Q: How do I get started with FEMA training?
A: Search for specific FEMA IS courses at FEMA IS Course List. Create a student account at login.gov to save your course certificates.
Q: Do I need to pay for FEMA courses?
A: No. FEMA Independent Study (IS) courses are free and self-paced online courses. To take these courses, you may need to create a FEMA student account. No prior coursework or prerequisites are required.
Q: How will I find time to complete this training?
A: Most FEMA IS courses take 1-2 hours, with few exceeding 3 hours. KCEST will provide training during monthly meetings for additional items (e.g., setting up Active911 accounts).
Q: How much time will I have to complete the checklists?
A: The recommended time is one year, but extensions can be arranged if needed. You can also complete the checklists faster if desired.
Q: If I can’t pass the background check, is there still a place for me?
A: Yes! You can attend public Skywarn events like NWS spotter training and participate in open comms meetings. While access to the sheriff’s department, EOC, and emergency management affiliation won’t be available, you can still participate in Skywarn nets and provide reports.
Meetings and Public Involvement
Q: When and where are KCEST communications unit meetings?
A: Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Kent County Sheriff’s Department at 7:00 PM. These are open to all KCEST members regardless of unit and invited guests. Non-members can use the “Contact Us” feature to request an invitation.
Q: Do you hold public meetings?
A: Yes. If you would like to sign up to receive information about these or to learn more about the organization, use the “Contact Us” form.
Q: Do other Skywarn teams require background checks and ICS training?
A: Yes. For example, Ottawa County Skywarn has required these for years. Their nets, like ours, remain open to any trained spotter.
Q: If I still have questions, how can I get assistance?
A: Use the “Contact Us” feature.