Lubbock Residents Invited to Learn Emergency Communications at Winter Field Day

If you’ve ever wondered how communities stay connected when phones go down, power is out, or weather turns dangerous, Lubbock County officials want you to see it firsthand.

Get our free mobile app

The Lubbock County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), along with the West Texas Pathfinders, is inviting residents with an interest in emergency communications and disaster preparedness to attend Winter Field Day, an annual nationwide amateur radio event held on the last full weekend of January.

What Is Winter Field Day?

Winter Field Day is an exercise designed to test and strengthen emergency communications in real-world conditions. Organized by the Winter Field Day Association, the event challenges amateur radio operators--also known as ham radio operators--to set up temporary communications stations in remote locations or simulated emergency environments.

READ MORE: ‘Sun’s Up, Guns Up!’ Red Raider Pride Echoes Through the U.S. House

Unlike summer field exercises, Winter Field Day focuses on the unique challenges posed by cold temperatures, ice, snow, and winter hazards. These conditions often mirror the realities of disasters, making winter practice critical for effective emergency response.

Participants attempt to make radio contact with operators across the country and around the world, using equipment that may be powered by non-commercial energy sources such as generators, batteries, or solar setups.

Building Skills for Real Emergencies

Winter Field Day isn’t just about making contacts--it’s about preparedness. The event encourages operators to deploy multiple antennas, experiment with satellite communications, and operate under conditions similar to those faced during natural disasters or infrastructure failures.

READ MORE: Joyful Poppin Brings A Candy Wonderland To Lubbock

For local emergency planners, these skills can make a real difference when traditional communication systems fail.

That’s where West Texas Pathfinders take things a step further.

How AUXCOMM Fits In

West Texas Pathfinders incorporate the Auxiliary Communications (AUXCOMM) model into their Winter Field Day preparedness. AUXCOMM is a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and National Incident Management System (NIMS) compliant program designed to support emergency and public service communications nationwide.

AUXCOMM includes amateur radio, RACES, CERT communications, GMRS, Citizens Band radio, and other non-public safety communication services. While auxiliary in name, AUXCOMM is considered a primary emergency communications asset across the country.

With the full support of Lubbock County OEM, West Texas Pathfinders are working to establish a county-level AUXCOMM unit led by trained volunteer coordinators.

A 100% Volunteer Effort for West Texas

West Texas Pathfinders is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, entirely volunteer-run and community funded. The organization provides trained emergency communicators, equipment, and support to public safety agencies, community groups, and charities--without any taxpayer funding.

Their volunteers are trained in Incident Command System operations, SkyWarn storm spotting, and advanced emergency communications, working closely with local amateur radio clubs and CERT teams.

For anyone curious about emergency preparedness, communications, or volunteering, Winter Field Day offers a front-row look at how West Texas stays connected when it matters most.

For any questions, please contact Brandon Kimbrell, (806) 317-2620.