St. Louis County Amateur Radio Emergency Service

The St. Louis County Amateur Radio Emergency Service, Inc., is a nonprofit organization that provides critical communication services during emergencies and community events. It is part of the broader Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) network, which operates nationwide to support disaster relief efforts, public service events, and emergency communications when other systems fail.

Background and Operations

The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) is a program of the American Radio Relay League, focusing on serving agencies such as fire and police departments, the American Red Cross, hospitals, and other emergency service providers. Local ARES teams, including the St. Louis Metro ARES, are organized at the county level in Missouri and similar structures exist across the U.S.

Activities and Training

Members of ARES, including those in St. Louis County, engage in regular training and exercises to enhance their communication skills and emergency response readiness. This includes participating in monthly nets and weekly practice sessions where they simulate message handling using standard formats like the FEMA ICS-213 General Message and ARRL Radiograms. These practices allow members to be proficient in formal traffic handling, essential during emergency scenarios.

Events and Public Service

ARES teams frequently provide communication support for public events, such as marathons, parades, and bike races. This role is crucial in maintaining efficient communications between event organizers, participants, and emergency responders. Additionally, ARES members participate in large-scale amateur radio events like the ARRL Field Day, which promotes community awareness and readiness.

Contribution to Emergency Management

During disasters or emergencies, ARES teams can be activated by local, county, or state authorities to assist with communication when primary systems are compromised. This capability is particularly valuable in areas with limited communication infrastructure or during events that overwhelm conventional communication networks.

Licensing and Compliance

All operators associated with ARES, including those from St. Louis County, must be licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ensure compliance with federal regulations governing amateur radio operations.

EIN

The St. Louis County Amateur Radio Emergency Service, Inc., carries the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 204299975.

Nonprofit Status

As a nonprofit organization, it operates under specific guidelines and regulations, focusing on serving the community through emergency communication services without profit motive.