This resource page is dedicated to supporting Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) operators in their mission to provide critical communication during emergencies. Here, you’ll find a wealth of tools, guides, and references to enhance your preparedness and operational capabilities. From frequency plans and deployment checklists to emergency communication protocols and training resources, these materials are designed to help you serve your community effectively.
TCARES is committed to maintaining a high current level of training and readiness for its members. To meet this goal, multiple training tasks exist. Please review the tasks with STX Depot under “STX ARES Course and Training Activity” link and begin reviewing which tasks for which you can already claim credit. All members should strive to complete the items required for Intermediate certification level at a minimum.
TCARES Members are strongly encouraged to download and print a copy of the ARRL ARES Task Book, and get sign off at events.
Monthly meetings along with weekly Voice Nets and WinLink activities contain training segments. ARES as an organization is driven to adhere to the National Incident Management System. The reason for this is Homeland Security and other Federal and State agencies have adopted NIMS as a event management plan. ARES members will be expected to understand and operate under NIMS during activations. Without this training, you may be excluded from participating or gaining access to emergency sites during activations.
Please check the AustinHams.org website for additional information. Other events and notices from other local ham organizations and public service groups listed published there.
NIMS courses are offered by FEMA and are available as virtual courses on the FEMA website.
Other training required by the Incentive Achievement Program are offered by the ARRL. Please refer to the course catalog on the ARRL site.