History of RACES

RACES has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1952. As a public service, RACES provides communications personnel to government agencies during times of extraordinary need. The primary role of RACES personnel is to perform various communication tasks for the agencies they serve during activations.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) oversees the creation and regulation of RACES operations, while FEMA handles the administration of the service due to its role in national disaster preparedness and disaster aid and recovery. Local government agencies responsible for disaster services administer each RACES group, including Fulton County RACES, under the direction of the Fulton County Emergency Manager.

RACES operations are critical in providing a pool of emergency communications personnel that can be called upon during times of need. RACES groups prepare themselves for activation and use any available communication mode, with 2 meters FM being the most prevalent. RACES personnel may also become involved in other government communications and emergency equipment repair.

Trained Fulton County NY RACES personnel are ready and prepared to help with whatever need arises. The importance of RACES operations cannot be overstated, and they remain a vital component of disaster response and recovery efforts.