ARES-FAQ

Peel Amateur Radio Club Inc.
P.O. Box 23532
Centennial Postal Outlet
227 Vodden St. E
Brampton, ON L6V 4J4

ARES INTRODUCTION – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - Our FAQ

What is ARES? - ARES is a special interest group within Amateur Radio that provides radio communications for the good of the community. While it is a national organization, all planning and administration is done at the local level, usually as part of the local ARC.
What does ARES do? - ARES makes available radio communications for various community events as well as emergency situations.
Why should I join ARES? - Each Amateur has their own motivation for joining ARES. Whether it's a sense of community spirit, an application for your equipment and talent or just a day out of the house, your participation will bring you a sense of satisfaction and comradery with your fellow Amateurs.
Why participate in non-emergencies? - These are quite important. Since true emergencies rarely happen we use participation in these events to constantly hone our skills. As well as providing community support, this also helps advertise Amateur Radio to the general population. It also demonstrates to agencies, that we normally serve, that we are active.
Should I be concerned about the stress of emergency events? - While the word "emergency" can be very intimidating, the fact is our role will always be to provide communications only and, as such, we are usually away from the action, hence stress is minimal. You are free to decline any assignment that you do not feel comfortable with.
Should I join up if I can't attend all the meetings? - By all means. Even though we have twelve meetings each year, attending at least half of them should keep you fully informed of what is happening. In addition, announcements are made on the weekly net, through the Brampton/Caledon Yahoo group, and minutes of all the meetings are published in the Peel Signal, so there are many ways to stay current.
Do I have to participate in all the events? - Not at all. Our goal is to have sufficient numbers of members, such that no one has to participate in all events, unless they want to.
Do I need some special knowledge to be a member? - You already demonstrated the basic knowledge when you passed your Amateur exam. We simply reinforce some of these things and establish operating procedures (eg: Frequencies to use)
Is our participation really appreciated? - I can only refer you to the many letters of thanks we have received from the various agencies we have served and to the radio equipment that some have purchased for us.
Am I obligated to attend all events once I am on the call up tree? - While the call up tree is intended to facilitate a "first response" to happenings, consideration is given to the fact that you have a life outside Amateur Radio (hopefully) and may not be available all the time. We will work around that.
How will I remember everything I need to know? - Our group has a well written Standard Operating Procedures manual that details everything required. This, along with practice events and meetings, usually does the job.
As a new Amateur, should I get more experience before joining? - Not at all. When you passed your exam, you already demonstrated that you have the basic ability required to contribute to the cause.
Can I participate if I'm not on the call up tree? - Certainly. While those who attend meetings and events regularly may be the most prepared, everyone can play a part by virtue of the fact that they are a Radio Amateur and know how to communicate. Signing up beforehand is preferable since it permits the coordinators to better plan operations.