50 Years Ago

Monday, Oct. 20, 1969

Radio club plans to provide aid to motorists

Ever run out of gas when you’re driving late at night? Or experience a flat tire on a quiet country road? Or get involved in an auto accident in which several of your passengers require immediate medical attention?

Chances are you have been in one or more of these trying situations. Perhaps hours elapsed before you were found and helped.

Starting this week, the chances of your receiving speedy attention have been significantly increased. That’s because 54 local operators of Citizens Band Radio are going to be looking out for you and other community residents as they travel along. If they find you in distress, they’re going to use their mobile transceivers to alert the police or fire department.

The CB operators will supply their know how and equipment through a newlyformed local REACT team. Like more than 1,300 other REACT teams throughout the U.S. and Canada, the units will serve on a cost-free, 24-hour-a-day basis.

In addition to providing a supplementary system of radio communication in emergencies, the team will be set up immediately to relay emergency messages to the proper authorities.

In many communities, CB radio has proved the difference between life and death. For example, a CB radio operator can save precious moments in situations where emergency oxygen or resuscitators are needed.

The REACT tea will be working with all emergency, law enforcement agencies and organizations. The following public officials have endorsed the team: City Manager Bruce Hamler, Rome Police Chief Bill Hart, Sheriff Joe Adams, Floyd County Police Chief Earl Russell and Rome Fire Chief A.D. Nixon.