The Kirkland Fire & Office of Emergency Management's KECT* serves as communication system backup in the event of an emergency or major disaster. Additional Ham radio operators are needed to join this cadre of volunteers (current numbering about 60). *KECT = Kirkland Emergency Communications Team

KECT volunteers are required to have Ham radio experience and specific training. Volunteers meet monthly and participate in regular systems tests and drills a couple of times each year. KECT volunteers must complete required City of Kirkland screening requirements and are asked to attend an initial monthly meeting and complete required online training before joining the team.

Fall 2018 Amateur Radio Class
Sept 25 - Oct 13 (details below)
Location: Maintenance Center East

Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) and Kirkland Emergency Communication Team (KECT) need additional licensed radio operators to work with the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on a volunteer basis.

There is no charge for the class but there is a cost for the General class study service located at www.hamtestonline.com (approx. $25.00) and a $15.00 expense for the exam. Classes run for two hours, except Oct 13 which is four hours). Students are urged to sign up as soon as possible for the study service to become familiar with the format.

Please arrive 30 minutes early for the first class. All classes will be held at the Maintenance Center (915 8 th Street 98033). Class schedule is as follows:
--Tuesday, Sept 25: 7-9 pm
--Thursday, Sept 27: 7-9 pm
--Tuesday, Oct 2: 7-9 pm
--Thursday, Oct 4: 7-9 pm
--Tuesday, Oct 9: 7-9 pm
--Thursday, Oct 11: 7-9 pm
--Saturday, Oct 13 (Exam): 10 am - 2 pm

Class size is limited to 20 persons so if interested, please register early. Students are urged to sign up as soon as possible for the study service to become familiar with the format. Please send your information to Ron Poole. The following information is necessary for enrollment: (1) your full name, (2) your email address, (3) your phone number, (4) a name for emergency contact and their phone number, (5) city of residence (you do not need to live in Kirkland to take this class. This is a City of Kirkland program.