Chatham AUXCOMM members are volunteers from all backgrounds that serve alongside Chatham County Emergency Operations staff and local public safety agencies during severe weather, major events, disasters, and exercises.
Whether in the County Emergency Operations Center, a Mobile Command Center, or a forward observation post, members leverage an array of sophisticated systems and equipment to maintain vital communications and share information. Members transmit real-time field conditions, establish communications between shelters and other emergency facilities, and manage critical logistics data.
Members hone and maintain their skills year-round through training and exercises. While the primary focus is building the skills required for licensed operators to communicate on Amateur Radio frequencies, Chatham AUXCOMM volunteers also have opportunities to:
- Operate High Frequency voice and digital platforms (Winlink, SHARES)
- Receive training on specialized deployable public safety communications systems and equipment
- Support local public safety agencies during incidents, events, and exercises
- Evaluate new and emerging technologies in use or being considered by AUXCOMM or public safety agencies
