APRS or Amateur Radio Position Reporting System uses Global Positioning System (GPS) technology along with packet radio to beacon a station's location to other APRS equipped hams. 

APRS is an effective tool in disaster or emergency communications and has many applications.  

In search and rescue, APRS can show what area teams are searching. This gives team leadership a real time view of the situation and enables them to redirect search teams quickly when needed.

APRS is equally versatile in disaster communications.  APRS can beacon the location of damage assessment teams, Red Cross and Salvation Army canteens providing a valuable tool to the Incident Commanders.

For more information on APRS check out www.aprs.net