On April 27, 2025, the Bonner County Civil Defense Resilience Team hosted a meeting focused on preparedness training, specifically highlighting the Meshtastic/Meshcore technology. This session aimed to educate community members about innovative communication methods that can enhance resilience during emergencies.

A key discussion point revolved around the functionality and security of mesh networking. Participants were informed that while the technology allows for continuous connectivity, it also poses potential risks. If someone is actively searching for signals, they could potentially locate users through specific radio frequencies. The presenters emphasized that users can configure their devices to limit broadcasting, thus enhancing privacy. However, they cautioned that if an individual is targeted, they could still be tracked using specialized equipment.

The meeting also introduced LoRaWAN, a technology that serves as a more advanced alternative to traditional Wi-Fi. LoRaWAN enables real internet connectivity and is suitable for remote control applications, such as managing industrial devices. While it requires a more complex setup, it offers significant advantages for users seeking robust communication solutions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of understanding both the capabilities and limitations of emerging communication technologies in enhancing community preparedness. As Bonner County continues to explore these innovations, residents are encouraged to engage with the technology while remaining aware of the associated risks. Future discussions and training sessions are anticipated to further equip the community with the knowledge needed to navigate these advancements effectively.