GMRS Outlaws
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Volunteer with your radio

Radio operators help their communities in storms, searches and big events. Here is how the main groups work and how to start.

Groups to know

  • SKYWARN

    A National Weather Service program that trains volunteers to report severe weather. Spotters often use ham or GMRS radios to pass reports along. Training classes are free.

  • ARES

    Amateur Radio Emergency Service, a group of licensed hams who volunteer their radios and skills during emergencies.

  • RACES

    Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service, a program run with local emergency management so hams can support government agencies in a disaster.

  • CERT

    Community Emergency Response Team, volunteers trained by local fire and emergency groups in basic disaster response. Radio skills are a big help.

  • Local nets

    Check in to weekly nets, like ours on Sunday night, so you are practiced and ready when it matters.

How to get started

  1. 1Get licensed. A GMRS license has no exam, and a ham license opens more options.
  2. 2Learn your radio: programming, power, and how to use a repeater.
  3. 3Join a weekly net to practice clear, short calls.
  4. 4Take a free SKYWARN class from your local National Weather Service office.
  5. 5Contact your county emergency management office to ask how volunteers help.
  6. 6Build a go-kit with a spare battery, a paper channel list and a simple antenna.

Also read emergency preparedness and see the next events.