Ham Radio for Event Organizers

Reliable, cost-effective communications for races, parades, and public events

‼️ This is general information about the capabilities of ham radio operations for public service events ‼️

Why Use Ham Radio For Your Event?

Independent & Reliable

Voice and data capabilities that works even when cellular or Wi‑Fi is overloaded or down. Off‑grid power via battery, solar, or generator keeps communications alive for hours.

Rapid Deployment

Network Control Stations (NCS) can be set up in under 30 minutes and ham operators can be repositioned as the route or event needs change.

Emergency Services Link

Operators can coordinate with police, fire, EMS, and local officials through trained Public Safety individuals. NCS can provide logging records for calls, incidents, and resource movement for post‑event analysis.

Licensed & Dedicated Frequencies

Operators are FCC-licensed to use dedicated amateur VHF/UHF and repeater frequencies, ensuring clear, interference-free communications without competing for crowded commercial channels.

What Are The Key Benefits?

Cost‑Effective

Volunteer clubs provide reliable, commercial‑grade communications for free.

Safety & Liability

Faster incident reporting shortens response times, increasing the safety and wellbeing of participants.

Scalable Coverage

From a single handheld pair for a small parade to a multi‑repeater network for city‑wide marathons. Ham radio operators support some of the largest events and races in Atlanta.

Community Goodwill

Partnering with local ham clubs demonstrates civic engagement and can boost sponsor perception.

How to Get Started

1. Contact Your Local Club

Most amateur radio clubs have a public‑service committee ready to support community events. Browse our club directory to find clubs in your area.

2. Define Event Scope

Outline your timeline, route, expected participants, and any special hazards or challenges.

3. Secure Frequencies

Coordinate with the ham club and local authorities to secure shared frequencies for the event. Your ham club can help you with this.

4. Integrate with ICS

Assign a liaison officer to the ham team to integrate communications into your Incident Command System. Most ham clubs have good raport with county Emergency Managers.

5. Run Pre‑Event Test

Verify coverage, power, and interoperability with emergency services before event day to ensure smooth operations. Your ham liaison will be primary.

Ready to Connect?

Contact me with general questions about how ham operators can help your event,
-or-
browse our club directory to find a local amateur radio club in your area that can help with your event.