Public service is a hallmark of Amateur Radio. The ARRL encourages all licensed amateur radio operators to volunteer with their local ARES® affiliated organization. Resources to help you find your local ARES® group are available here: https://www.arrl.org/ares

Keep up with the latest ARES® information and updates by subscribing to the monthly ARES® Newsletter. Click here to sign up: https://www.arrl.org/ares-letter/.

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(Posted 10/6/25): The ARES® Field Resources Manual. This useful resource for ARES® members is available for viewing or download from the ARRL.org web site. Click here for the manual in PDF format: Field Resource Manual

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September is National Preparedness Month. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reminds us that, “Having a plan and preparing yourself will improve your chances of being resilient in the face of disaster.” A checklist of 12 ways to prepare is available here: 12-ways-to-prepare.pdf. Additional preparedness resources are available here: https://www.ready.gov/september.

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About Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES®)

ARES® is an organization of volunteer amateur radio operators standing ready to support their communities when called upon by providing communications support in times of disaster. ARES® volunteers may also provide support for special events in their local areas.

The ARES® motto is When All Else Fails®. Hurricanes, wild fires and other disasters can result in damage to cell towers and power lines. Downed trees and flooding can damage overhead and underground cables. Any of these incidents may result in power outages, and loss of cellular and wired phone service, internet and cable television.

When the worst happens, Amateur Radio Shines. Using battery, generator or even automobile power, amateur radio operators can provide communication capabilities independent of the internet and phone systems. Amateur stations can be on the air almost instantly, providing a vital communication link with the local city or county Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

Depending on the type and severity of an event, ARES® members may be deployed to local shelters, hospitals or other facilities to provide backup communication capabilities in the event regular services are disrupted. ARES® members may also operate from their homes, thus providing emergency communication support for their local community or neighborhood.

ARES® is organized and coordinated by the American Radio Relay League® (ARRL®). All licensed amateur radio operators are encouraged to join ARES® and support their local ARES® team. More information about ARES®, additional resources and training opportunities are available on the ARRL® website: Click here.

Additional information is also available from your local amateur radio club. You can find a club near you using the search tool on the ARRL® website: Club search.