An important aspect of ARES is the training offered to the operators. This training includes:
- Proper operating procedures,
- Preparation for deployment,
- Understanding how agencies function,
- Knowledge of the organization of incident commands.
This training is provided by the ARES Emergency Coordinator or others during weekly nets, monthly meetings, and drills and exercises. Public service events provide opportunites to lock in the training through real-world experience. You can download the training 'Task Workbook' to keep a record of your training. The Task Workbook can be found on the STX ARES Information Depot Vault area.
Additional training is through courses provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) through the Emergency Management Institute (EMI) and the Independent Study Program (ISP).
Many agencies are requiring courses in the National Incident Management System and Incident Command System (ICS) and, even if not required, these courses are generally useful for understanding the management of an incident. The expected ISP courses are ICS-100, 200, 700, and 800. The classroom class ICS-300 is also valuable.
The Amateur Radio Relay League also offers emergency management courses.
An additional class interesting to many amateur operators is Skywarn training provided by the National Weather Service. This is organized by local CERT or amateur organizations usually every other year at the beginning of the year. Check the Events page for an announcement of this class and the Houston NWS Skywarn schedule.
"ARES" and "Amateur Radio Emergency Service" are registered servicemarks of the American Radio Relay League, Incorporated and are used by permission.
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