Responsibilities, Do's and Dont's of the ARES Communicator

The Do's
Know how to reprogram and configure your equipment	Carry what documentation is needed to support your operation
Inform Net Control Station (NCS) when you are at your assigned station.	Use proper procedure to interrupt the net.
Inform the person in charge at the site of your presence and capability.	Set up your equipment in such a manner as to not interfere with others.
Listen for your tactical call sign.	Answer promptly and clear with your call sign
Keep a log of your activities.	Keep all transmissions short.
Speak across the face of the microphone.	Shield your microphone from wind and loud noises.
Establish contact before sending long messages.	Answer questions directly; give explanations only if asked.
Use short, simple words and phrases.	Acknowledge transmission directed to you.
State questions in a positive form.	Bring charged spare batteries.
Use an earphone whenever possible.	Use the highest gain antenna you have.
Review operational procedures and protocols frequently.	Write a summary of your activities at the conclusion of the event.
Close your station in a neat and orderly manner.	Act at all times so as to be a credit to Amateur Radio and ARES.

The Don’ts
Fail to keep your equipment ready and in good condition	Ask questions about status; NCS will make periodic announcements.
Forget to give your amateur call sign at the end of a communication	Fail to enter messages and event times into your log.
Leave the net without permission of NCS.	Make unnecessary transmissions.
Use jargon or Q-signals.	Use VOX or a locking PTT switch.
Transmit while your HT is on your belt.	Lose contact with the person you are shadowing.
Modify the text of a message you are given to transmit.	Make statements to the media on matters outside ARES functions.
Try to second-guess your client or agency you are serving.	Fail to pay attention to what is happening on the net.
Close your station unless ordered to do so by net control.	Depart without informing the person in charge at the site.
Don’t act out of the scope of an amateur radio operator!	Do not try to be a policeman, fire fighter or health care provider. Do not use emergency lights or sirens on your personal vehicle.

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