SPECIAL EVENTS IN CANADA HIGHLIGHT PUBLIC SAFETY

In Canada, two special events in May are designed to be public-service events too. Hams have organized VB3COPS during Police Services Week and VB3EMS during Paramedic Services Week, also known as Emergency Medical Services Week. Although both events are about getting on the air, there's a lot more to them than just the QSOs.

Between May 10th and 16th, a group of amateurs in southwest Ontario will be calling CQ as VB3COPS as a thank-you to the police for the various services they provide. This coincides with National Police Week, a campaign that began in 1970 in Canada, when those in police services also showcase their different responsibilities.

Then from May 17th through to the 23rd, hams using the callsign VB3EMS will honour first responders for their work and remind chasers of some basic safety tips, such as the need to know your blood type, your allergies, your emergency contacts and how to perform CPR - among many other important points.

For details, frequencies and operating modes, see the QRZ.com pages for these stations.