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What is RACES?
| The Radio Amateur
Civil Emergency Service has its start in units originally designed for
radio communications by Amateur Radio Operators on FCC authorized frequencies.
Dramatic changes in technology and expansion of governmental Public Safety
systems indicate the need for a broader service, and many jurisdictions
are adopting the Auxiliary Communications Service concept, which makes
possible more effective management and utilization of personnel from RACES,
Civil Air Patrol, the Military Affiliate Radio System, Citizen's Band and
other supporting organizations, in support of civil defense and disaster
response and recovery. Activities under the Auxiliary Communications Service
include much more than operations on selected frequencies of a single service.
Napa County is still managed under the RACES structure.
RACES provides tactical, logistical and administrative support and communications for all government communications systems. This includes operations on equipment and frequencies of ANY authorized equipment or frequencies in support of ANY need by government that might be in any way connected with an eventual emergency. This includes: cellular, computer, e-mail, facsimile, Internet, interpersonal, microwave, radio (police, fire, amateur, other), satellite, telephone, television, video-conference, in-office support of personnel, operators of equipment and systems. |
Do I have to become an RACES Member?
| No.
If you already participate in such organizations as ARES or CDF's VIP,
you may continue to serve them.
RACES policies do not affect those groups, they are independent organizations. However, if you wish to participate in the traditional RACES-style role, you must become a registered RACES member (see FCC Regulations Part 97, Section 407(a)). |
Why do we need to have volunteer policies and procedures?
| Policies and procedures are needed in order to ensure that all RACES members are treated equally, fairly and with the respect that dedicated volunteers deserve. These policies are modeled from basic and commonly accepted business standards and practices. These policies also provide valuable legal protection for the volunteers and the departments they serve. |
Why is there a Volunteer Application?
| Disaster Service Worker regulations require an application. Coverage under applicable insurance is contingent upon this application. |
What if I don't complete the registration forms? Can I still be in RACES?
| Napa County RACES is part of the Napa County Office of Emergency Services and serves to augment the government communications capability in time of emergency. Completion of the registration forms is required for ALL Disaster Service Workers. No one can be a RACES member without being a registered Disaster Service Worker with the County of Napa. |
Where can I get more information?
| Get on the air on the 441.800 repeater or check our Contact page. |