The Virginia Amateur Radio Emergency Service is now a member of the Virginia VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) system, according to a release from Virginia ARES.

VOAD, a statewide coalition of independent voluntary organizations, provides humanitarian services during emergencies and disasters. The Virginia Amateur Radio Emergency Service is an integral provider of emergency communications.

“This builds a more effective foundation for serving the needs of community in difficult times,” said Dave Minyard of Virginia ARES.

ARES is part of the Amateur Radio Relay League and is responsible for emergency communications using amateur radio operators. ARES does not require landlines or cell phones to transmit essential communications during emergencies. The radio volunteers help to assure situational awareness and notice of needs to those who need to receive that information, a release stated.

The Middle Peninsula Amateur Radio Club is affiliated with ARRL. Club me...