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Net Control Training

If you have participated in a net and would like to take the next step and train as an NCO, please review the NCO training script that is provided below and the Net Control Station Training Manual, then send an email to PowhatanARES@proton.me.

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ARES
Simulated Emergency Training (SET)

The Simulated Emergency Test (SET) is an annual nationwide emergency communications exercise sponsored by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL). During this drill, Powhatan ARES volunteers test off-grid gear, practice tactical messaging, and evaluate local emergency readiness assuming commercial power, cellular, and internet infrastructure have failed.

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The exercise gives local operators hands-on experience under simulated emergency conditions while demonstrating the reliability of amateur radio to Powhatan County officials, emergency management agencies, and the public.

Second Weekend in October

Powhatan ARES conducts its local SET exercise during the second weekend in October. This timing allows the group to coordinate with local emergency management schedules, regional radio networks, training activities, and volunteer availability.

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Core Objectives

Identify Strengths & Weakness

To find out the strengths and weaknesses of ARES, NTS, RACES and other groups in providing emergency communications.

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Demonstrate Value

Show served agencies, partner organizations, and local media the value to the public that Amateur Radio provides, particularly in time of need.

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Build Operator Skill

To help radio amateurs gain experience in communications using standard procedures and a variety of modes under simulated-emergency conditions.

How to Get Involved

​​You do not need to be a seasoned emergency responder to participate. The SET welcomes all licensed amateur radio operators, regardless of experience level.

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Licensed Operators

Join our weekly training nets (Mondays at 7:00 PM on the 147.315 MHz repeater), help pass test messages, or operate your station using emergency power during the exercise window.

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Community Members

Learn how amateur radio serves as a vital communications safety net for Powhatan County when standard systems fail.

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Question about participating?

Contact the Powhatan ARES Emergency Coordinator at

PowhatanARES@proton.me.

FEMA Independent Study Courses​

A FEMA SID is required to register for and participate in any training provided by FEMA. 

 

What is a FEMA SID?
FEMA Student Identification (SID) number is a unique number generated and assigned to anyone who needs or is required to take training provided by a FEMA organization. Your FEMA SID uniquely identifies you throughout the FEMA organization and all of its agencies. The goal is for your FEMA SID to serve as your personal identification number instead of your Social Security Number (SSN) in support of FEMA’s effort to decrease/cease the use of SSN for identifying and tracking individuals.

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Why do I need a FEMA SID?
A FEMA SID is required to register for and participate in any training provided by FEMA. All FEMA training providers’ registration systems and enrollment procedures require a valid FEMA SID. The FEMA SID will serve as your unique identifier and be used to maintain the record of FEMA training you attended.

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Incident Command Training

These four courses are required for ARES Level 2 in accordance with the ARES Individual Task Book. For instance, some government-sponsored activities will require volunteers to demonstrate knowledge by completing certain FEMA ICS courses, which correlate to ARES Level 2. 

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Skywarn Spotter Field Guide
Skywarn is a volunteer program in the United States that trains individuals to become severe weather spotters. These trained spotters help to identify and report severe weather events to the National Weather Service, aiding in timely warnings and alerts to communities. Skywarn plays a crucial role in enhancing public safety during severe weather outbreaks by providing accurate, real-time information to meteorologists

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