Previous Training for RCEMA/RACES Personnel

Ripley County Indiana Emergency Operations Center

24 Hour
Emergency Phone Number
(812) 689-5555

Office Phone Number
(812) 689-0505

Fax Number
(812) 689-4374

PO Box 718
210 N Monroe St
Lower Level
Sheriffs Office Bld
Versailles IN
47042

Training Received by Personnel

Local Weather Spotters Receive Advanced Training

A large crowd of severe weather spotters recently attended a full day of instruction from the leading storm chaser in the state, Professor David L Arnold of Ball State University. The class, sponsored by the Ripley County Emergency Management Agency and the Ripley County Repeater Association Amateur Radio Club, was the first time such training has ever been available in southern Indiana, according to EMA Director Jerry Fry.

Dr. Arnold teaches Operation Meteorolgy at Ball State, and each summer, spends an entire month with his class, chasing and studying storms and tornadoes all over the Midwest! With over 100 tornado events in his past, Dr. Arnold has become the leading authority on spotting and chasing in the state. His stories and video of the storm chases captivated the entire crowd all day. "We have spent countless hours providing basic training to thousands of people in this area for the past 15 years" said Dan Mulford, EMA Deputy Director and Training Officer. "We are fortunate to be able to provide this more advanced training, and were very happy with the turnout!"

The April 6 class was by reservations only and was full by February! The EMA and RCRA worked long hours to prepare for the class, including the compilation of a 100 page handout binder for each student, as well as the food for students in the 8 hour class. The class was attended by over a dozen amateur radio spotters, EMA staff, EMA RACES amateurs, firemen from six Ripley County departments, and many other police and ems personnel.

Director Fry commended all those that took a day out of their schedules to attend this important seminar to improve spotter skills in an effort to serve the community. Fry also praised the Town of Napoleon for the donation of the Community Center for the class. Funding for the class was provided by both the EMA and RCRA.

Thank you for your continued support of the Ripley County EMA - Dan Mulford Deputy Director.

Contact Information
Please convey any questions or concerns to the RCEMA