What Are Appropriate Uses of Ham Radio for Public Events?

Ham radio operators are often asked to help with communications at local events. Often, hams who are active in emergency communications and radio clubs are the ones contacted with these requests.

As a ham radio operator I have been involved with emergency communications for years. I've been involved with R.A.C.E.S (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service) for many years and still am. I am also active with the local Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.). I have also taken and passed the Emergency Communications course offered by the American Radio Relay League (A.R.R.L.)

So the topic for this post is, when is it okay to use amateur radio equipment for purposes such as helping non-licensed amateurs. These activities often include walks, runs, bike rides, tri-athalons, and similar activities where large numbers of people are often spread out over a large area. This is a topic with many ins and outs and some gray areas. However, FCC rules, Part 97.113 says:

"(a) No amateur station shall transmit: (2) Communications for hire or for material compensation, direct or indirect, paid or promised, except as otherwise provided in these rules; (3) Communications in which the station licensee or control operator has a pecuniary interest, including communications on behalf of an employer...."

Hams often use their radios to help non-profit organizations raise funds for their worthy cause. Why? Well, besides being part of something that is helping people, it is a good way to hone their skills and to keep in practice. Most hams that are involved in emergency communications have a bag or kit in which they carry radios, spare batteries, bottled water, and anything they might need in a real emergency. Many call it a "Ready Bag."

Sometimes organizations don't give much of what they collect to the ones who need it. In that case, I would not personally participate. How do you know what percentage they are giving vs. keeping? Unfortunately, it can take a little work on your part. Basically you need to ask them what percentage will go to fund the program. Sometimes you can find information on their website or other places on the web. For instance, many groups can be found online at the EFCA or similar non-profit watchdog websites. For me, I want to see over 70% going to the cause for which the event is run.

The other area to watch is when a groups' event is partly for profit, where they are only giving a small percentage to the charity. In any event, do your homework. In this case, I believe the FCC's Part 97 is very clear that any event that is for profit is unacceptable for use of amateur radio participation.

'73
WA2KKG