Just a reminder that severe weather is just around the corner and will be here before we know it.  With that, here are a few things to consider before we get into storm season.

1. Do not check into weather net until you are ready to participate.

2. Once checked in, stay as long as possible.

3. Once assigned to a location, stay there unless reassigned by Net
Control, asked to move by law enforcement or other authority, or if
you have to move for safety.  Let Net control know so we know where
you are in case you need help.

4. Be as brief and concise as possible.  Know what you are going to
say BEFORE pressing-to-talk.

5. Give your location with your call sign.  For example: 1/2 mile
east of Meriden Road on 24 Highway.

6. Don't check in to inform Net Control that you are listening.  We
need to concentrate on those spotting.

7. We are providing information to the National Weather Service and
Emergency personnel.  If you see something that doesn't look right,
call it in; don't ask for a weather report to determine if you should
call it in.

8. Be safety minded.  Watch for areas prone to flash flooding and
have an escape route from your location planned out in advance.

9. If there is a sign that informs you the road is "Minimum
Maintenance" you might want to pick a different road.

10. Listen for information from Net Control.  If net control informs
you that there are numerous power lines down, avoid those areas and
be prepared for signal lights to not be working around that area.

11. If you see an electrical line across the road, stop & call it in. 
The life you save might be yours.

12. There is no need to inform Net Control that Fire Fighters have
left or arrived unless they have a problem with their radios and ask
you to relay the information. Net Control is at the Dispatch center
and already knows.

13.   If you have a complaint about how the net is operated or how
participants are responding, inform the EC AFTER the net is over. Not
during the net or while checking out.  Be prepared to tell the EC
what you see as a problem and possible solutions.

As the ARRL EC manual says, "Stay off the air unless you are SURE you
can be of assistance.  It does no good to offer advice, assistance,
comments or other input to a net unless you can provide
clarification.  It is better to remain silent and thought a fool than
to open your mouth and remove all doubt!"