Amateur Radio operators have informal and formal groups to coordinate communication during emergencies. At the state level, hams are often involved with state emergency management operations. In addition, in areas that are prone to tornadoes, many hams are involved in Skywarn, which operates under the National Weather Service. The MonmouthCounty ARES members do public service events. Once a year, on the last weekend in June, Local Radio Clubs participates in Field Day.
Field day is a large-scale test of our emergency field communications.
We engage in friendly competition with other hams around the country who have set up similar field communications. Field day is also a good place for members of the public to see ham radio in action, and, is a social gathering for members of the clubs.