Emcomm
Emcomm, short for Emergency Communication, is something I actively participate in within my local community. I currently assist a few of my local counties as a net control operator, for not only practice nets, but for active emergencies and other local community events. I encourage everyone to look into getting their Skywarn training certificates, and participate in their local ARES and other EMCOMM groups.
What is Skywarn?
In most years, thunderstorms, tornadoes and lightning cause hundreds of injuries and deaths and billions in property and crop damages. To obtain critical weather information, the National Weather Service (NWS) established SKYWARN® with partner organizations. SKYWARN® is a volunteer program with between 350,000 and 400,000 trained severe weather spotters. These volunteers help keep their local communities safe by providing timely and accurate reports of severe weather to the National Weather Service.
What is ARES?
ARES is a program sponsored by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) in the United States. ARES groups are composed of licensed amateur radio operators who volunteer their time and expertise to provide emergency communications during times of need. These groups often work in collaboration with local emergency services such as law enforcement, fire departments, and other agencies, to establish and maintain communication capabilities during disasters, emergencies, and charity events.