A Independent, Resilient, and Non-Governmental Disaster Radio
Network, Ensuring Reliable Communication When It Matters Most.
What is DisasterNet BC Society?
DisasterNet BC Society provides a secure, private, and independent high-frequency (HF) radio network supporting voice and data (email via radio) to ensure disaster communication when traditional third-party infrastructure fails. Our network connects communities across British Columbia with Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) and neighbouring regions, providing a continuous flow of critical information during disasters.
Why Does Your Community Need DisasterNet BC Society?
Disasters Disrupt Communications - Cell towers, landlines, and Internet services can be unreliable or fail during a crisis.
HF Radio is Independent & Secure - DisasterNet BC Society operates on dedicated commercial HF frequencies unaffected by power outages or infrastructure damage. The radio equipment can operate on 12v battery power.
Direct Link to Emergency Management - Member communities can use DisasterNet BC to connect with EMCR and other emergency agencies when existing systems fail, providing a resilient fallback that operates independently of third-party telecom providers and their infrastructure.
Proven Resilience - HF radio has been used worldwide for decades in disaster response and recovery scenarios.
How DisasterNet BC Society Works
✅ Member Communities purchase, install and operate dedicated HF radio stations.
✅ Monthly Network Tests ensure operational readiness and reliability.
✅ A Dedicated Frequency Network allows secure, interference-free communication.
✅ Member-driven collective governance, organizational support, and a voice in shaping the network
✅ Training & Technical Support helps members maintain and operate their stations effectively.
What Does Membership Provide?
Access to a Resilient Disaster Network - Critical communication independent of external infrastructure.
Guidance & Training - Support in station setup, licensing, and best practices for HF radio operation.
Community Collaboration - Coordinate disaster response with neighbouring regions & emergency partners
Operational Readiness - Participate in monthly radio tests to ensure reliability in an actual disaster.
What Does It Cost to Join the Network?
The initial investment for the following equipment is approximately $20,000 per station, which could be available via grant funding.
This one-time radio station infrastructure investment ensures your community has a lifeline when disaster strikes.
Barrett Base Station HF Radio
SCS DR-7800 Modem (for email via HF)
Barrett HF Base Station Antenna
Laptop Computer (if required)
Local Installation & Setup
*Annual ISED radio station licence fee - $55
Annual Society Membership Fee - $200
*Contact your supplier for current pricing*
*Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) is the federal agency that manages and issues HF commercial radio frequencies in Canada, ensuring reliable and regulated spectrum use.
Note: DisasterNet BC Society does not sell radio equipment. All equipment is sourced from independent third-party suppliers, and the Society receives no financial benefit from these transactions. Core components of the DisasterNet BC network are sourced internationally: radio equipment is manufactured in Australia, and the data modem is from Germany. No components are sourced from or supplied by the United States.
How to Get Started
1. Learn More - Contact us at info@disasternetbc.ca for detailed membership information.
2. Secure Funding - Apply for the EOC Grant to cover equipment and setup costs.
3. Install & Train - Work with DisasterNet BC Society for installation, setup, and operator training.
4. Participate & Stay Ready - Engage in monthly test sessions to ensure network reliability.
Join DisasterNet BC Society Today!
Ensure your community is prepared, connected, and resilient when it matters most.
DisasterNet BC Society provides the tools, training, and network access needed to maintain vital communication during disasters.
We must stay ahead of disasters by ensuring a reliable communication strategy - DisasterNet BC
is about preparation, foresight, and maintaining connectivity when it matters most.
DisasterNet BC Society brochure