Emergency Communications
Training for disaster communications and coordination
Why Emergency Communications Matter
When disasters strike, normal communication systems often fail. Cell towers go down, landlines are disrupted, and internet connectivity is lost. Emergency communications training prepares you to maintain critical communications when it matters most.
Amateur Radio (Ham Radio)
Licensed amateur radio operators provide vital communications during emergencies when other systems fail.
- Technician, General, and Extra class licenses
- Local repeater networks
- Emergency mesh networks
- Packet radio and Winlink
ARES/RACES
Organized volunteer radio communications programs for emergency response.
- Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES)
- Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES)
- Integration with local emergency management
- Regular training exercises
Auxiliary Communications (AUXCOMM)
FEMA's training program for communications support to emergency operations.
- Position-specific training
- Integration with ICS
- Multi-agency coordination
- Communications unit leader certification
Digital Communications
Modern digital modes for reliable emergency data transmission.
- Digital voice modes (DMR, D-STAR, Fusion)
- JS8Call for keyboard-to-keyboard
- FT8 for weak signal propagation
- Email over radio (Winlink)
Get Started
To get involved in emergency communications, start by getting your amateur radio license. Study materials are available free online, and exams are offered by volunteer examiners in most communities.