Training is recommended but not required to participate in emergency communications. W5OBM provides training opportunities:

Basic Training:

• Emergency communication procedures
• Message handling and traffic formats
• NET control station operations
• Digital emergency modes (Winlink)

Advanced Training:

• FEMA/ICS (Incident Command System) courses
• ARRL Emergency Communications courses
• SKYWARN spotter training
• Emergency Operations Center procedures

Getting Started:

• Participate in weekly club NETs
• Join emergency communication drills and exercises
• Take online FEMA courses (IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, IS-800)
• Attend ARRL emergency communication seminars

The most important thing is willingness to help your community when needed!