What is the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES)?

The Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) is a volunteer-based program in the United States that involves amateur radio operators in providing emergency communication services during times of civil emergencies and disasters. Established in 1952, RACES was created as part of the country’s civil defense efforts to ensure the availability of backup communication channels when normal communication systems are disrupted or overloaded.

RACES is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and operates under the jurisdiction of local, county, or state emergency management agencies. In order to participate in RACES, amateur radio operators must be registered with their local emergency management organization and receive training specific to their roles and responsibilities during emergencies.

During times of emergency, RACES may be activated by the appropriate government authority, such as the local emergency management director or state governor. When activated, RACES volunteers work in coordination with other emergency response agencies, providing essential communication support, such as relaying messages, situational updates, and resource requests.

Some key aspects of the RACES program include:

• Emergency Communication: RACES volunteers provide vital communication links when regular systems are disrupted, damaged, or overwhelmed. They can establish communication networks using amateur radio equipment and frequencies designated for RACES use by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
• Organization and Training: RACES groups are organized at the local, county, or state level and work closely with emergency management agencies. Volunteers receive training in emergency communication procedures, incident management, and equipment operation.
• Coordination with Other Services: RACES often works in conjunction with other amateur radio emergency communication services, such as the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES), which is sponsored by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL). While both RACES and ARES have similar goals and often share volunteers, RACES is a government program with a more formal structure and specific activation procedures, while ARES is a volunteer-based organization that operates under the guidance of the ARRL.
• Drills and Exercises: RACES groups regularly participate in drills and exercises to maintain their skills, test equipment, and ensure effective communication during actual emergencies. These activities help improve coordination with other emergency response agencies and identify areas for improvement.

In summary, the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) is a volunteer-based program in the United States that involves amateur radio operators in providing emergency communication services during civil emergencies and disasters. RACES is administered by FEMA and operates under the jurisdiction of local, county, or state emergency management agencies. RACES volunteers play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining communication links when regular systems are disrupted or overwhelmed.