When disaster strikes, amateur radio frequently plays a pivotal role in restoring communications. Ham radio has a long history of being first to report earthquakes, major fires, storms and floods, and to fill in when local phone systems or power lines go kaput. Practice for such emergencies often takes the form of public service communication activities by hams. That includes passing along greetings from special events and fairs, linking first aid stations for marathons and races, going to Scouting jamborees, and annual Field Day exercises. Each summer, Field Day sends dedicated hams packing off to remote locations where they set up temporary stations and antennas and operate continuously for 24 hours, competing among themselves to see how many other U.S. and international amateur radio stations with which the participants can trade call signs.

Being prepared for emergency service is a responsibility most hams feel goes with the privilege of having been granted a license to use a part of the increasingly crowded radio spectrum. U.S. law sets forth the basis and purpose of the Amateur Radio Service as recognizing and enhancing a voluntary noncommercial communication service, particularly with respect to providing emergency communications. The Act says that amateur radio “contributes to the advancement of the radio art,” and “expands the reservoir of trained operators, technicians and electronic experts,” and “recognizes the amateur’s unique ability to enhance international good will.

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