The Mendocino County Auxiliary Communication Service (MACS) is a trained group of volunteers ready to support the Operational Area with communications and radio operator resources in the event of major disaster or incident. Their goal is to support the gathering and distribution of information necessary to respond to and recover from a disaster. The standard means of communication is amateur radio (ham radio), but operators also utilize telephone, fax, email, and digital messaging.

 

Training

Volunteers are primarily licensed Amateur Radio operators. Other technical and communications skills and licenses are welcome. Training in basic emergency communications is provided, as well as exercises to familiarize personnel with the jurisdictions and local agencies Mendocino County Office of Emergency Services (OES) supports.

The MACS Net begins at 1930 hours (7:30 pm) local time each Wednesday evening, on the county-wide repeater system. The purpose of this net is to practice Net Control skills, practice checking in with deployment status in a formal net, and to share information regarding upcoming MACS events. All licensed amateur radio operators are welcome to check in. MACS enjoys partnering with local radio clubs as often as possible.

 

How to Get Involved

To apply or for more information contact OES@mendocinocounty.org