Auxiliary Communications for real-world incidents.
AUXC supports emergency communications volunteers and served agencies with practical guidance aligned with ARES/RACES-style operations: preparedness, training, nets, message handling, and interoperable support when primary systems are degraded.
Trained volunteer communicators supporting public safety/EM under established plans and leadership. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Many operators participate in both; ARES is ARRL’s program, RACES is typically enrolled through local civil defense / EM. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Locate ARES groups or ARRL-affiliated clubs to start training and plugging in. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Mission and focus
Support the incident
Communications exist to serve objectives: safety, coordination, situational awareness, and public service.
Operate with discipline
Net control, concise traffic, logging, and message forms—skills that scale from drills to disasters.
Integrate with COMU
When requested, auxiliary communicators can support communications units using standard training pathways. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Get started
1) Connect locally
Start with a nearby ARES group or amateur radio club—training and relationships are the real infrastructure. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
2) Learn the rules of the road
Understand how ARES and RACES differ, and how enrollment works for each. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
3) Train and practice
Build repeatable skills: message handling, nets, tactical call use, logging, and basic interoperability.
Operate ethically
Respect served-agency leadership, follow plans, protect sensitive information, and prioritize safety.
Training and COMU alignment
COMU resources
CISA/Safecom training resources include AUXCOMM role overview and related COMU training guidance. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Documentation habits
Logs, message forms, checklists, and shift turnovers—boring on purpose, effective under stress.
Mode versatility
Voice, digital, HF/VHF/UHF, and auxiliary pathways—selected based on conditions and the plan, not vibes.
Find a group near you
On-topic resources
Field-ready visuals
Contact
We can add local ARES sections, county EM contacts, and training calendars as you build the org.