Skywarn is a cooperative program between the National Weather Service (NWS) and trained volunteers. The skywarn concept was developed in the 1970s to help train weather spotters that ultimately saves lifes and property every year since. Even though the NWS has radars and other ways to predict and view the weather, they must rely on reports from spotters to determine the sevarity of the weather.
The National Traffic System (NTS) was formed in 1914 when the American Radio Relay League formed. The NTS is a nation wide network that allows many different types of radio messages to be passed quickly and efficiently. Any radio amateur that participates in the NTS donates their time and equipment.
Michigan NTS NetsWest Michigan Traffic Net- Sundays 9:00 PM on the IRA link system.
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) is dedicated to providing communications during various types of actual or potential emergency situations. Possible examples of emergency situations covered might be: Chemical Spills, Search and Rescue, and Large Scale Fires and Severe Weather Events. ARES also provides communications help for various community events such as: Parades, Walks/Runs, Marathons, Community Fairs, etc...
ARES is sponsored and supported by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL). The ARRL has many Memorandums of Understanding with many different organizations including the American Red Cross and the National Weather Service. Any licensed Amateur may join ARES by filling out an application form which can be obtained from the Emergency Co-ordinator in the county they reside.
The Radio Amatuer Civil Emergency Service (RACES) is a federal service that is backed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and was created in 1952. RACES can only be activated by Local, State, or Federal emergency managers for the purpose of help during large scale emergencies.
To become a member of RACES you must provide a copy of your Amateur Radio license, complete the FEMA IS-22 online course, have a clear criminal past as indicated by a Felony Background check, and you must complete a RACES registration form obtained from your county Emergency Co-ordinator.
