Many hams are using APRS tracking systems as back-up emergency location devices, like ELT's or SPOT, with the difference being that the APRS network saves days worth of stored position reports. When a special signal is sent, the APRS system will display the position of the unit sending the distress call on mapping software ( www.aprs.fi is one such mapping site) The problem is, there is no one to monitor the network and react to emergency beacons, except whatever hams may be looking at the map of the area where the distress call originates.
I have asked a friend of mine if he could add a feature to his website (openaprs.net) if he could add a feature to notify concerned parties when a beacon originates in their area, via E-Mail. My question is, who should be notified? CAP, the Local SAR groups? Sheriffs Office? ( The system covers the entire world, so you would want to narrow it down a bit!)
APRS Trackers are very common in Experimental Aircraft (see; "Death traps") so its kind of a CAP related function, but it could just as easily be monitored by REACT, MARS, or anyone signing up for notification, unfortunately, this would include news media, and ambulance chasers. Any ideas? Should this be a CAP mission ( informally) handled by our retired and computer bound members? Obviously CAP can't orginate a mission, but as members they can pick up the phone, and many CAP members are SAR cross-dressers.
Major Lord
I think this may be something that should be coordinated through AFRCC. Specifically there is some organization in each state that is responsible for SAR, and AFRCC has this on file in the individual state flex files. This would give the organization that is ultimately responsible for SAR in a given geographic location the opportunity to decide whether or not they want to take on this task.
If it is an airplane beacon, it should go to AFRCC no matter the state. AFRCC has made an agreement with each state specifically on how to handle them.
I think that AFRCC would be an excellent agency to forward these to, but I am not sure that they would appreciate a computer generated message. FYI, AFRCC's interests include more than aircraft emergencies.
Major Lord