Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES)

Amateur radio operators use their training, skills, and equipment to provide communications during emergencies When All Else Fails^®.  Hams serve our communities when storms or other disasters damage critical communication infrastructure, including cell towers, and wired and wireless networks. Amateur radio can function completely independently of the internet and phone systems. Click here for more Information about Digital Modes in the Tri-county area.  An amateur radio station can be set up almost anywhere in minutes. Hams can quickly raise a wire antenna in a tree or on a mast, connect it to a radio and power source, and communicate effectively with others.    Learn more about the ARRL Emergency Communications Training course.

The Tri-County ARC has an exemplary relationship with the local Emergency Management establishment.  The Jackson County Emergency Management Coordinator, Bryan Bullock (KO4ZDC), has directed the establishment of the  Jackson County Communications and Damage Assessment Team (CDAT).

 

Many Tri-County hams are also involved with CDAT – which offers an opportunity to  those who desire to be a greater servant to the community by becoming certified in the  FEMA  Incident Command System.

REMINDER:     Hams are always encouraged to remain involved… but should do so by:   Maintaining / Supporting Situational Awareness.   In the case of an ‘event’ : check-in to one of the local repeaters or, if necessary, make contact on one of the national calling frequencies.   Hams can be most effective when we are prepared, aware, support the efforts of the first-responders, and leverage our skills and equipment in a coordinated (taking instructions from ‘the net’) way.

Many Tri-County ARC members are also active with surrounding ARES groups, below are links to the local ARES groups

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Georgia ARES

Hall County ARES