About ARES

The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) is a volunteer group organized through the Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL). You do not need to be a member of the ARRL to be part of ARES. The only requirements are to possess an Amateur Radio license, a radio, and a have desire to serve. ARES is activated before, during and after an emergency. ARES handles all emergency messages, including those between government emergency management officials. ARES cannot operate if the President of The United States limits access to the Radio Spectrum under the War Powers Act or other declaration.