Georgia Amateur Radio Emergency Service® Mission Statement

Supporting Emergency Communication Across Georgia

Introduction

The Georgia Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (GA ARES®) stands as a vital component of the state’s emergency response network, harnessing the skills and dedication of licensed amateur radio operators to provide robust auxiliary communications during times of crisis. In an era when natural disasters, technological failures, and unforeseen emergencies can disrupt conventional channels, the role of GA ARES® becomes ever more essential. This mission statement serves not only to articulate the guiding principles of the organization but also to inspire current and future members to uphold the highest standards of service, integrity, and community collaboration.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Georgia Amateur Radio Emergency Service® is to provide reliable, effective, and timely emergency communications in support of governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the citizens of Georgia during times of disaster, crisis, or any situation where normal communications are inadequate or fail. GA ARES® is committed to promoting preparedness, training, and cooperation among its volunteers and partners, ensuring resilient communication pathways that help protect lives and property across the state.

Core Values

  • Service: Placing the needs of the community above personal interests and responding whenever called upon.
  • Preparedness: Maintaining a constant state of readiness through ongoing education, exercises, and personal commitment to excellence.
  • Integrity: Acting with honesty, transparency, and respect in all activities and interactions.
  • Cooperation: Fostering teamwork and mutual support within GA ARES® and with all partner organizations.
  • Resilience: Building robust systems and adaptive strategies to face any communication challenge.

Objectives

GA ARES® pursues its mission through several key objectives:

  • Establish and maintain emergency communication networks: Deploy networks capable of operating independently of commercial infrastructure, including HF, VHF, UHF and digital modes.
  • Support local, regional, and statewide emergency operations: Work closely with Emergency Management Agencies, Red Cross, hospitals, public safety organizations, and other key partners.
  • Train and certify volunteers: Offer regular training sessions, drills, and exercises to enhance technical competence and practical skills.
  • Develop and preserve operational plans: Create, update, and distribute standard operating procedures and emergency plans tailored to Georgia’s unique needs and risks.
  • Promote public awareness: Educate citizens about the role of amateur radio in emergency response and encourage community involvement.
  • Assist during major events: Provide supplementary communications during planned public gatherings, severe weather outbreaks, and other situations requiring coordinated response.

Operational Principles

GA ARES® operates under principles designed to ensure effective service delivery:

  • Volunteerism: All participants serve without compensation, motivated by a sense of civic duty and service.
  • Professionalism: Members are expected to adhere to the highest standards of conduct and technical expertise.
  • Interoperability: Communication systems and protocols are selected to maximize integration with other agencies and technologies.
  • Flexibility: Members are trained to adapt to rapidly changing situations, environments, and needs.
  • Safety: All activities are conducted with careful attention to the safety and well-being of volunteers and the public.

Roles and Responsibilities

GA ARES® volunteers fill a variety of roles:

  • Net Control Operators: Coordinate radio traffic during emergencies, ensuring clear and accurate information flow.
  • Field Operators: Deploy to disaster sites, shelters, and other locations to establish communication links.
  • Technical Specialists: Advise on equipment configuration, repair, and troubleshooting.
  • Trainers and Mentors: Support new operators and guide continuous improvement for all members.
  • Liaisons: Manage relationships with partner agencies and integrate ARES® resources into larger response efforts.

Partnerships

GA ARES® works in close partnership with:

  • Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA)
  • American Red Cross
  • National Weather Service
  • Local law enforcement and fire departments
  • Hospitals and health departments
  • Nonprofit response organizations
  • Other amateur radio groups

These partnerships allow for coordinated planning, resource sharing, and integrated operations during emergencies.

Training and Preparedness

GA ARES® places significant emphasis on training and preparedness. Volunteers participate in regular exercises simulating natural disasters, technological failures, and other emergencies. These drills hone operational readiness, improve technical proficiency, and build effective teamwork. Training topics include:

  • Radio operation and etiquette
  • Message handling procedures
  • Digital modes and data transmission
  • Incident Command System (ICS) protocols
  • Equipment setup and troubleshooting
  • Emergency power solutions

Members are encouraged to pursue certifications such as FEMA courses and ARRL® Emergency Communications training.

Community Engagement

GA ARES® recognizes that its mission is best fulfilled through active engagement with the communities it serves. Outreach efforts include:

  • Public demonstrations of amateur radio technology
  • Participation in community events such as Field Day
  • Presentations to schools, civic groups, and local governments
  • Collaboration with CERT programs and other volunteer groups
  • Dissemination of emergency preparedness information

Such engagement raises public awareness and strengthens the pool of potential volunteers.

Response Scenarios

GA ARES® responds to a wide range of scenarios, including:

  • Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and other severe weather
  • Power grid failures and communications outages
  • Large public events needing supplementary communication
  • Search and rescue operations
  • Pandemics and public health emergencies

In each scenario, GA ARES® strives to provide timely, accurate, and actionable communication to assist emergency response and recovery efforts.

Future Vision

GA ARES® is committed to continuous improvement. Looking ahead, the organization plans to:

  • Expand digital communication capabilities
  • Recruit and mentor new volunteers
  • Strengthen relationships with partner agencies
  • Adopt new technologies to enhance operational flexibility
  • Increase public outreach and advocacy
  • Maintain a robust and adaptive organizational structure

These efforts are aimed at ensuring that GA ARES® remains a trusted and effective resource for emergency communications throughout the state.

Conclusion

The Georgia Amateur Radio Emergency Service® stands ready to serve, guided by a clear mission and unwavering dedication. By fostering a spirit of volunteerism, professionalism, and community partnership, GA ARES® ensures that the citizens of Georgia can rely on resilient, efficient communication support—no matter the circumstance. Every member, from the newest recruit to the most seasoned operator, is united in the shared purpose of protecting lives and strengthening the bonds of community through amateur radio. In times of crisis, when every second counts and every message matters, GA ARES® answers the call.

©2024 Georgia Section - Amateur Radio Emergency Service®