Ham Aid: Equipment Lending for Disasters

Ham Aid: Equipment Lending for Disasters

In times of disaster, when on-site communication equipment is damaged or compromised, the ARRL Ham Aid Program steps in to provide crucial support. Let’s explore the program’s guidelines, purpose, and how it ensures that amateur radio operators (hams) can continue their vital communication role during emergencies.

Background and Creation

• Hurricane Katrina: The Ham Aid program emerged in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
• Amateur Radio Manufacturers’ Donations: Many manufacturers donated equipment to ARRL (American Radio Relay League) to create an inventory for Ham Aid.
• ARRL as Custodian: ARRL agreed to serve as the custodian of this equipment, ensuring its availability for disaster response within the United States.

Program Guidelines

1. Purpose and Permissible Use of Ham Aid Equipment:

• Ham Aid provides Amateur Radio equipment for loan to amateur radio operators during disasters.
• The intent is to assist groups on-site, serving communities and residents during emergencies. Requests must be made by the ARRL Section Manager or designee, approved by an ARRL officer.

1. Chain of Custody and Permissions:

• ARRL HQ coordinates requests for equipment loans through its Field Organization.
• Proper permissions and approvals ensure responsible deployment.

1. Pre-Deployment and Dispersion of Inventory:

• Equipment is pre-positioned for rapid deployment.
• Inventory includes transceivers, antennas, power supplies, and accessories.

1. Deployment Outside of the USA:

• Ham Aid primarily serves within the United States.
• Requests for deployment outside the USA are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

1. Length of Equipment Deployment:

• Deployment duration depends on the specific disaster and needs.
• Amateur radio operators return equipment promptly after its use.

1. Distribution and Shipping:

• ARRL manages equipment distribution and shipping logistics.
• Efficient coordination ensures timely delivery.

1. Liability:

• Liability considerations are addressed in the guidelines.
• Proper handling and care of equipment are essential.

1. Equipment Returned to HQ from Deployment:

• After deployment, equipment returns to ARRL HQ.
• Inspection, maintenance, and restocking prepare it for future use.

1. HQ, Inventory, Packing, Storage, and Maintenance:

• ARRL maintains equipment inventory, ensures proper packing, and oversees storage and maintenance.
• Regular checks keep the equipment ready for deployment.

Conclusion

The Ham Aid Program exemplifies the spirit of amateur radio—community service, preparedness, and resilience. By providing emergency communications equipment, Ham Aid ensures that amateur radio operators can continue their critical role, connecting people when it matters most.

For more information, refer to the ARRL Ham Aid Program Guidelines. If you’re interested in supporting amateur radio operations during disasters, explore ARRL’s Ham Aid Go Kits.