Ham Radio Emergency Communications (EmComm)
Emergency communications — EmComm — is one of amateur radio's most important public service roles. When natural disasters knock out phone networks and internet infrastructure, licensed ham operators are frequently the only reliable link between affected communities, emergency managers, and relief agencies. This section covers everything from joining ARES or RACES to building a go-kit, running nets, operating Winlink, and deploying AREDN mesh networks.
Amateur radio's public service mission
FCC Part 97 explicitly lists advancing public safety communications as one of the fundamental purposes of the amateur radio service. When Hurricane Helene struck western North Carolina in 2024, ham radio operators coordinated road closures and relief operations after cell networks failed. After Katrina, over a thousand amateur operators converged on the Gulf Coast. EmComm is not a specialised branch of ham radio — any licensed amateur can participate. The foundation is knowing how to operate reliably, follow net procedures, and work within an organised incident command structure when needed.
Key EmComm organizations and tools
ARES — the Amateur Radio Emergency Service — is organised by the ARRL through local sections and emergency coordinators. RACES is a government-affiliated programme that activates under official emergency declarations. Many operators hold dual membership. Beyond these, SKYWARN trains hams as severe weather spotters for the National Weather Service. Winlink provides radio email when internet is unavailable. APRS delivers real-time position tracking and short messaging. AREDN builds broadband mesh networks over amateur radio hardware. Each tool solves a different gap in the communications picture.
Do I need a specific licence for EmComm?
Any valid licence — Technician, General, or Extra — allows participation. Technicians cover VHF/UHF for local nets and repeaters. General and Extra open up HF bands used for NVIS and regional nets. No special EmComm certification is required to participate, though ARES and RACES may have their own training prerequisites.
What is the difference between ARES and RACES?
ARES is a voluntary ARRL programme that can activate for any emergency or public service event. RACES is a formal government programme that only activates under an official emergency declaration. In practice many hams hold dual membership in both.
What radio do I need to get started?
A dual-band VHF/UHF handheld is the minimum entry point for local nets and SKYWARN. For regional EmComm including NVIS and Winlink, an HF transceiver covering 40 and 80 metres is the standard. A go-kit typically combines both.
How do I find my local ARES group?
Use the ARRL Section and Emergency Coordinator lookup at arrl.org. Your ARRL Section will have an Emergency Coordinator who manages the ARES programme for your area. Listening to local 2m repeaters for weekly ARES nets is also a good first step.
What training do I need?
FEMA ICS-100 and IS-700 are free online and required or recommended by most ARES sections. ARRL EC-001 covers EmComm-specific topics. SKYWARN training is free through local NWS offices. Hands-on practice through Field Day and regular net participation builds practical skills.