Emergency Communications - Lesson 4 -

HAM Radios: The Gold Standard of Emergency Communication

When it comes to versatile, long-range, and grid-independent communication, HAM radios (also known as amateur radios) are unmatched. Used by hobbyists, emergency responders, and preparedness professionals around the world, HAM radios are available in handheld, mobile, and home base station formats, making them adaptable to your needs and budget.

Unlike walkie-talkies or CB radios, HAM radios can transmit over local, regional, or even global distances, depending on the setup, antenna, and atmospheric conditions. But with this capability comes a bit more complexity.  Education, licensing, and community involvement play a role.

Note: In ham radio, the term "band" refers to a group of frequencies (like the 2-meter or 70-centimeter band), while "frequency" is the specific number you tune into for communication within that band.

Here's the difference:

• Frequency refers to a specific point on the radio spectrum, measured in Hertz (Hz), usually kilohertz (kHz), megahertz (MHz), or gigahertz (GHz). For example:

• 146.520 MHz is a frequency.

• Band refers to a range of frequencies that are grouped together for a specific purpose. For example:

• The 2-meter band is a ham radio band that spans 144 to 148 MHz.

In simpler terms:

• A frequency is a specific channel.

• A band is a section of the spectrum that contains many frequencies.

Grid-Down Resilience

One of HAM radio’s greatest strengths is its ability to function completely independently of infrastructure. It does not rely on the internet or cell towers. With just power and an antenna, HAM radio remains one of the most reliable communication methods during:

• Natural disasters

• Civil unrest

• Power grid failures

• Widespread infrastructure collapse

Do Local Emergency Services Monitor HAM Transmissions?

A common question is whether local emergency services routinely monitor HAM radio transmissions. Typically, they do not monitor amateur frequencies regularly because police, fire, and EMS operate on specific, government-assigned dedicated frequencies separate from amateur bands.

However, during major emergencies, local Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs), Red Cross shelters, and response teams frequently rely on HAM operators. In these situations, HAM frequencies become vital for communication when standard systems (cellular, internet, landlines) fail.

Many communities have dedicated amateur radio emergency groups, such as:

• ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service)

• RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service)

These groups coordinate directly with local governments and first responders, handling critical communication between shelters, hospitals, emergency personnel, and response teams.

What This Means for You:

• To effectively use HAM radios in emergencies, join and train with local HAM emergency groups (ARES, RACES).

• Owning a HAM radio alone does not guarantee emergency responders will hear your transmissions unless you follow established emergency communication protocols or are transmitting on actively monitored emergency frequencies during a crisis.

Join a Local HAM Community (Highly Recommended)

HAM radio is more than just equipment.  It’s a community-focused preparedness system. Joining a local amateur radio club or emergency network helps you:

• Learn equipment operation and programming

• Participate in communication drills

• Get support installing antennas or establishing a base station

• Connect with operators who will be active during emergencies

Information Gathering: Listen Beyond Amateur Conversations

Many HAM radios, particularly base and mobile units, can scan additional local frequencies, such as:

• Police, Fire, EMS

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather alerts

• Search and rescue communications

Monitoring these frequencies can provide valuable real-time information and enhance your situational awareness during emergencies. Keep in mind, however, that some emergency frequencies may be encrypted or restricted, depending on your area.

Licensing and Learning Curve

To legally transmit on HAM frequencies in the U.S., you’ll need to earn at least a Technician Class license from the FCC. Fortunately:

• The exam is inexpensive (around $15)

• No Morse code is required

• Plenty of free study resources and apps are available

Even before you're licensed, you can listen in legally.  This is a great way to get familiar with the airwaves.

Preparedness Takeaway

HAM radio offers unmatched flexibility, power, and independence, but it comes with a learning curve. If you're serious about communication preparedness, investing the time to get licensed and connected with the HAM community is well worth it. It’s not just about radios, it’s about being part of a resilient, informed, and coordinated network when the world around you goes silent.