While “politeness” isn’t a word exclusive to Amateur Radio, it’s certainly one worthy of highlighting. It’s important from time to time to remind ourselves that the amateur bands should be a safe harbor for all of us to enjoy—from youngsters to longtime operators. With this in mind, our Word of the Day turns once again to the words of John Devoldere, ON4UN, and Mark Demeuleneere, ON4WW, who wrote “Ethics and Operating Procedures for the Radio Amateur” in 2008. The document has since been translated into more than 25 languages and been accepted by the International Amateur Radio Union Administrative Council. The 68-page document leaves no stone unturned, covering everything from how to call CQ to the golden rules of being a good on-air citizen. Here’s what it says about politeness:
“Never use rude language or abusive words on the bands. Such behavior says nothing about the person it is addressed to, but a lot about the person behaving that way. Keep yourself under control at all times.”
