What is RACES?

RACES stands for Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service, which is a program created by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) under Part 97 of its rules. This service is designed specifically for amateur radio operators to provide emergency communications support during national emergencies. RACES operators are often organized and trained to work with local, state, and federal emergency services to ensure reliable communication when other forms of communication may be disrupted or overloaded.

This designation allows amateur radio operators to serve as a vital link in the emergency response network, enabling them to assist in communication efforts when disaster strikes, such as natural disasters or other crises. The focus on civil defense encompasses a broad range of emergency situations, making it a crucial part of the overall emergency management framework.

The other options, while related to amateur radio or communication services, do not accurately describe RACES. They refer to different organizations, activities, or concepts within the amateur radio community that do not encompass its primary function and legal framework established for emergency communications during crises.