The Amateur Radio Emergency Services team is always looking for new members. People excited about providing communications in an emergency situation. So how do you join ARES and what is the difference between level 1 and level 2?
ARES level 1 is the entry level, join the team come on in and look around. Talk to others that have been on the team for years and get the feel of what is expected as an ARES volunteer. You do not need to take any FEMA ICS or ARRL course to join ARES.
ARES level 2 So now you know what it is and you want to continue. You want to build your own go box and you want to deploy to a local emergency operations center (EOC). At this level you will increase your skill level by completing several FEMA ICS courses and the ARRL course.
ARES Level 3 You like everything ARES stands for and you want to contribute more. To be appointed into a leadership position you need to step up to level 3. At this level you will learn about more advanced subjects. Only the Section Emergency Coordinator can make ARES leadership appointments.
ARES level 1 you are required to do the following:
1) Get a copy of the ARES Task Book. Click on the menu item above and download the latest copy.
2) Fill out and send in the ARES membership application. Again this is a menu item above.
3) Study for and pass the Technicians license test. Many local clubs have study groups and they provide the testing. If you need a contact then click on CONTACT above and let us know, we will find a local club for you to study and test with. You must have a Technician license, or higher to join ARES.
That is all you need to do to join the ARES team. After you join you might consider advancing your skill level by working on ARES Level 2, which you can read about in the Task Book.
