Joining ARES

Membership in Clark County ARES/RACES is by application to the Emergency Coordinator (EC).  An applicant must complete both a Clark County “Volunteer Emergency Worker Registration Form” and a Clark County ARES/RACES “Registration/Update Form”.  The applicant must also successfully complete a background check by Clark County Sheriff's Office.

You will need an Amateur Radio license to join ARES/RACES.

If you are interested in joining Clark County Washington ARES/RACES, please read the prospective member information letter below that describes who we are and what we do.  Complete the two registration forms listed below electronically and send them to the appropriate parties per the information letter.

•  ARES/RACES brochure
•  Prospective Member Information
•  Member Application
•  Apply for Your Emergency Worker Number

Please visit one of our monthly meetings. We meet at 7:00 p.m. the 3rd Monday of each month (except December)  at American Legion Post 176 at 14011 NE 20th Avenue, Vancouver, Washington 98686.

FEMA Courses ICS 100, 200, 700 and 800 are required to become a member. Complete the tests for the courses and email the PDF certificates along with your completed member application form to EC@ccareswa.org.

Upon approval by the Emergency Coordinator and Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency (CRESA), the applicant will be issued an Emergency Worker Registration number and ID badge for working as ARES/RACES.  The ID badge will be required when participating in events and activations.  Some agencies may require a separate badge and/or registration when in their facilities.  Other agencies, such as the Red Cross, will accept the ARES/RACES ID badge in lieu of their Red Cross ID.

Note:  All applicants are subject to a limited background check conducted by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office.