Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services (RACES)
The Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services (RACES) program was founded in 1952. The RACES program is a volunteer group that provides communications support to the Office of Emergency Services during times of disaster. The members of the Sheriff's RACES Program are all licensed amateur radio operators who volunteer their time and service to the support of the Sheriff.
Mission
As part of their emergency planning, RACES members play an active role in preparing emergency communications support for all of the Cities within Contra Costa County. By coordinating their activities throughout the county, the members of the group are able to plan a coordinated and complete communications plan. No matter the type of emergency, the members of the RACES program will be there to provide communications support.
Qualifications
To apply for membership with the Sheriff's RACES Program, you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Possess a valid amateur radio operator's license.
- Possess a valid California Driver's License.
- Be in good physical and mental condition.
- Have no juvenile police record or poor driving history.
- Own and maintain your own radio equipment.
Download and review the RACES Membership Criteria.
Apply for RACES membership
Download and Fill out the following forms and bring them to the next RACES training session.
- CCCSO RACES Application
- CCCSO Volunteer Application
- CCCSO Volunteer Release Authorization
- Disaster Service Worker registration form
RACES Resource Manual
At the September 2003 EC's meeting, it was decided that the ARRL EC-001 course book will be the RACES resource manual. Portions of the old manual will be made into operating aides to supplement it. The Course manual is available from the ARRL for $19.95 (2/08).
Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Course, Level I. (ISBN: 0-87259-846-2)
ARRL Order No. 8462. Click here to order
Mandatory Training
All members are expected to complete the following training:
- Contra Costa Harassment Awareness
- RACES/ARES Basic Training
- FEMA IS-100 (ICS 100)
- FEMA IS-200 (ICS 200)
- FEMA IS-700 (NIMS)
Recommended Training
Since message handling is an important part of our job, it is recommended that all members complete the following online courses:
- Level 1 AREC (EC-001)
- Level 2 AREC (EC-002)
- Level 3 AREC (EC-003)
- IS-800.B National Response Framework
Questions? Contact the Emergency Coordinator in your city. Locate your city EC on the RACES Organization page.