Emergency Communication
Amateur radio's vital role in community support and disaster response
Amateur Radio in Emergencies
When normal communication systems fail, amateur radio operators provide critical support to emergency management agencies. Ham radio operators have been instrumental in countless disasters including:
- Hurricanes and tornadoes
- Earthquakes and tsunamis
- Floods and severe weather
- Wildfires
- Infrastructure failures
- Search and rescue operations
Getting Involved in Emergency Services
ARRL Emergency Services
Information on becoming an emergency communications volunteer.
Learn More →ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service)
Organized amateur radio emergency response program.
Visit ARES →RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service)
FCC-directed emergency communications service.
Learn More →Local Emergency Management
Contact your county or local emergency management agency.
Find Your Agency →Personal Preparedness
Build a Personal Emergency Kit
- Battery backup power and solar chargers
- Multiple communication devices (handheld, mobile, mobile)
- Off-grid antenna systems
- Extra batteries and power supplies
- Documentation of important information
- Local repeater frequencies programmed in radios
- Medical supplies and first aid kit
- Emergency contact information
Family Communication Plan
- Establish a meeting point if separated
- Program family and emergency contact numbers
- Know how to operate emergency radios
- Practice emergency procedures
- Keep documents and important records accessible
- Have cash and supplies on hand
Emergency Communication Bands
| Band | Frequencies | Primary Use | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80M/40M | 3.5 - 4.0 / 7.0 - 7.3 MHz | Long-distance Emergency Nets | Worldwide coverage, all hours |
| 20M | 14.0 - 14.35 MHz | Long-distance messaging | Worldwide propagation during day |
| 2M | 144 - 148 MHz | Local repeater networks | Extended range via repeaters |
| 70cm | 420 - 450 MHz | Local digital and repeater traffic | More repeaters available than 2M |
Operating Emergency Nets
What is an Emergency Net?
An emergency net is an organized group of amateur radio operators who meet on a scheduled frequency to provide information and coordinate activities during emergencies or exercises.
How to Participate
- Listen to the net on the designated frequency
- Wait for the Net Control Station to take check-ins
- When called for check-ins, identify with your callsign and brief status
- Follow all instructions from the Net Control Station
- Keep transmissions brief and to the point
- Never break in unless you have emergency traffic
Major Emergency Nets
- Skywarn: Relay severe weather information (operated by NOAA and supported by ARRL)
- American Red Cross Net: Serve and support humanitarian efforts
- Traffic Nets: Handle and relay formal messages
- Local Area Nets: Organized by local clubs and ARES groups
Resources for Emergency Preparedness
Remember: Preparedness Today = Peace of Mind Tomorrow
Amateur radio is a powerful tool for emergency communications, but disaster preparedness is everyone's responsibility. Build your emergency kit, learn the skills, and be ready to help your community.