Welcome
The Rowlett Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (R.A.C.E.S.) began in January 2001. This website is an on-line resource for members of Rowlett R.A.C.E.S. and other interested parties. The Rowlett Fire Department and the Office of Emergency Management sponsor Rowlett R.A.C.E.S.
The Objective of R.A.C.E.S.
The Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service, or RACES, is an organization of licensed amateur radio operators who volunteer their time and equipment to provide supplemental communication to local, county, or state agencies during times of crisis or disaster.
F.C.C. regulations found in part 97, subpart E. governs R.A.C.E.S. Only RACES affiliated stations may participate in RACES nets, including training drills, per FCC regulations. More information on RACES is available here.
The Role of R.A.C.E.S.
Functions include:
- SKYWARN nets, spotting storms and tracking them for the National Weather Service (NWS) or other civil agencies
- Lost or missing person or child
- Evacuations due to natural disaster or a hazardous material event
- Communications for a public service event such as parades, 'thons, or gatherings such as carnivals or city celebrations
- Supplemental communications to Fire and Police in the event of failure of existing trunking or repeater systems
R.A.C.E.S. activates any time supplemental communications is necessary and enables the freeing of local resources such as fire and police to do their jobs.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining Rowlett RACES or have questions, please send an email to the Rowlett Radio Officer with your question, comment or a request for application.