The network is organised on a tier system, from the member of a local group through to regional, national and international networks. Thus volunteers can be activated to any level to cater for a specific emergency. It is a self-contained organisation that provides its own equipment, operators, portable power supplies and in some circumstances it's own transport and catering. AREN personnel are voluntary communications experts. They are trained in setting up and operating emergency communications networks from their own home stations, in the premises of an Emergency Service, or at the scene of an incident. Some operators hold Marine Radio Certificates for HF (short wave) and/or vhf bands following practical and written examination in the operation of marine transmitters, Navtex, search/rescue equipment and safety/emergency procedures. Some AREN Operators have GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) equipment, which is capable of providing extremely accurate position fixes in Irish Grid or Longitude and Latitude. Communications options.

• Multiple short-range (up to 10km or more) portable vhf/uhf links for search parties etc.
• VHF/UHF, and HF (short-wave) medium range links (10-100km), both mobile and fixed station.
• HF (short wave) short/long range links, regional, national and international.
• Links over difficult paths via countrywide mountaintop Repeater networks, or via local temporary cross-band vhf/uhf repeaters.

The service is entirely voluntary, similar to Amateur Radio Emergency Networks operating in countries throughout the world. Training is on going and is reinforced by operations at public events where skills are put into practice and simultaneously, safety communications are provided to the community. AREN also participates, when requested, in training exercises arranged by the emergency services.

Membership

A list of AREN Coordinators is shown on the Coordinators Page. These should be contacted directly using the telephone numbers, e-mail or mail addresses provided. Membership is open to licensed radio amateurs who have the necessary equipment and facilities at their disposal. It is not necessary to be a member of the IRTS or of another national organisation in order to qualify for membership.

Last Updated: Wednesday, April 16, 2008 9:43