Who are ARES members?
ARES members are Amateur Radio operators, licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), who volunteer their time and equipment to serve the public. All active ARES members must have a valid amateur radio license, because ARES operates using amateur radio frequencies. But this is the only requirement. Any licensed amateur radio operator can be a member of ARES. There is no requirement for, or discrimination against, membership in any other club or organization. Although Nassau County ARES encourages dual membership in both ARES and the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), and maintains a strong affiliation with the Long Island Mobile Amateur Radio Club (LIMARC) and the ARRL, membership in these groups is not required. Also, there is no requirement that you own any specific equipment, although the use of battery powered, portable equipment is strongly encouraged.
