HOW TO DELIVER NATIONAL TRAFFIC SYSTEM (NTS) MESSAGES
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Handling third party traffic is the oldest tradition in Amateur Radio.
This is most valuable during disasters.  Nationwide, the National
Traffic System (NTS) has hundreds of local and section nets meeting
daily in order to facilitate the delivery and origination of such
messages.  This system functions on a daily basis as a positive public
service for fellow hams and the general public.  It serves another
function as well.  The NTS provides a well oiled and trained national
system of experienced traffic handlers able to handle large volumes of
third party traffic accurately and efficiently during disasters.  At
least that is the goal.  More and more of this traffic is being
originated, relayed, and delivered on packet.  The following
concentrates on the procedure of delivering a third party message.

Of course, we encourage all originating stations to give as complete
an address as possible including a telephone number; this is not
always possible and is not a requirement.  We have seen disaster
related NTS traffic as well as everyday NTS traffic be delivered with
as little information as the first and last name and the city.  Here
are some "preferred" procedures to effect the goal.

USING TELEPHONE DIRECTORIES AND DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE

If the message doesn't have a phone number check the phone book.  Be
sure to check for close or alternative spelling possibilities due to
possible errors or typos.

Then call 411 and repeat (especially necessary for new listings).
Granted this second step may cost the operator.  However, this is well
worth it for the benefit of Amateur Radio.

DELIVERING MESSAGES ON THE TELEPHONE

Be friendly, clear, and pleasant.  Assume that the recipient knows
nothing about Amateur Radio.  Assuage their fear about any costs.  A
good opening may be as follows.

"Hello Mrs. Smith?  This is an Amateur Radio operator here in Podunk
Hollow and I have a radiogram message to you from your Uncle in Iowa
Flats.  It is dated Sept. 15 and is for you and Mr. Smith.  It reads...
read the text...signed, Uncle Herbert."

Pause here for any response.  Usually you will get profuse thanks,
questions on how the message was relayed, or questions about Amateur
Radio.  If the recipient seems to be a bit stunned or apprehensive,
you might ask if the message was understood.  Then ask if they would
like to send a message back.  Explain that the service is is a free
public service of Amateur Radio.  Get as a complete an address as
possible for any replies including a telephone number.

MAILING AND HAND DELIVERING MESSAGES

If no phone number can be obtained, a good NTS operator will deliver
the message by hand (if it is reasonably close to the QTH) or mail it
(in the case of PO Boxes or addresses too far away).  it is
recommended that the message be mailed on ARRL radiogram forms,
stating the reason for mailing (Mailed because no phone number given
or listed).

You can get ARRL radiogram blanks from the ARRL in pads or postcard
form at most good ham radio stores or from ARRL Headquarters (see
"QST Magazine"). Otherwise, make it look professional by typing it.
Give your home phone number and address if they have questions.
Explain that this message is a free public service of Amateur Radio.