THE ALASKA-PACIFIC EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS NET
The "AP Net" originated as a result of the 1964 Good Friday earthquake that occurred in Alaska. All normal means of communication were wiped out, and ham operators provided a vital link to the rest of the world during that time. Why the frequency of 14.292 was chosen is not exactly known; however, after the quake the frequency became a gathering place for Alaskan hams to meet with other operators in the Lower 48. This frequency became "the place" to get traffic passed to Alaska. The group of hams meeting on the frequency in the mornings grew so large it was decided a roll call was warranted.
The Alaska Department of Emergency Services, recognizing the importance of the service provided by Alaskan hams during an emergency, gave support to the group by printing and mailing the monthly rosters.
The Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management still provides support to the net with this important service. Over the years the net has grown tremendously and now boasts over 100 members, with an average of 60 check-ins each morning. It is still the first choice for Lower 48 stations to get traffic passed into Alaska. Fortunately, there have been no major disasters in Alaska in recent years, but when the need arises again, the Alaska‑Pacific Emergency Preparedness Net will be there!