Emergency Communications Training and References

This section lists external Emergency Communications (EmComm) training, manuals, and references.
The first certification you should get for emergency communications is an amateur radio license. Take and pass your Technician test. This will prove that you know the basics of radio technology, FCC regulations, and radio communications. It will also allow you ARRL membership, which will give you discounts on books and courses. A GMRS license is also useful, especially for work with CERT.
Emergency Communications Training Courses (in recommended order):

The Auxiliary's Communication and 2-Way Radio course

A broad, introductory course on emergency communications and team communication in the Auxiliary which is required for all volunteers. Offered periodically, locally, free and open to the public.

IS-100a

FEMA's introductory course to the Incident Command System. A prerequisite to many emergency communications courses and required for ARES. Available for free online.

IS-700a

FEMA's introductory course to the National Incident Management System. A prerequisite to many emergency communications courses and required for ARES. Available for free online.

EC-001

ARRL's Introductory Emergency Communications Course. Requires IS-100 and IS-700. $85 ($50 ARRL) online, 9-week, 45-hour course.

References and Manuals:

• The ARRL Operating Manual For Radio Amateurs, 9th Edition
• The ARRL Communication Emergency Handbook
• ARRL Public Service Communications Manual
• National Interoperability Field Operations Guide (NIFOG) - "...a reference guide for public safety radio technicians and communications planners. The waterproof, pocket-sized guide (also available in PDF format) contains radio regulations, tables of radio channels, and technical reference information. This guide is ideal for those establishing or repairing emergency communications in a disaster area."
• Auxiliary Communications Field Operations Guide - "...contains information about AuxComm best practices, frequently used radio frequencies, Mutual Aid channels as well as tips and suggestions about auxiliary emergency communicators integrating into a NIMS ICS environment to support communications for planned events or incidents."
• National Traffic System (NTS) Manual
• Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) Manual