The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) / Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), consists of licensed amateur radio operators (hams) who have voluntarily registered qualifications and equipment for communications duty in the public service during disasters. ARES / RACES is committed to protect life and property during an emergency.

Membership is not required to attend meetings or to participate in many public service events. Due to requirements of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), State ARES / RACES mandates National Incident Management System (NIMS) training by members and leadership and must be completed. Membership in the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) or any other organization is not required, just a valid Amateur Radio license.

The American Radio Relay League administers ARES. Any member can activate the ARES / RACES group. ARES / RACES provides emergency radio communications to a number of client groups, including local government and the American Red Cross.

The Milwaukee/Waukesha ARES / RACES is supported financially by the Amateur Radio Emergency Corp. Inc. (AREC).

Our Mission

• To promote Amateur Radio to include training in communications proficiency.

• To provide emergency communications to all Governmental Agencies in times of disaster or whenever needed.

• To provide communications to any and all activities where there is the possibility of personal injury and/or property damage.