In the aftermath of 9/11 and the passing of the Homeland Security Act, new requirements have been instituted effecting ANYONE and EVERYONE that desires to volunteer and be of assistance during an emergency or disaster situation.  Increased security measures, new requirements for those wishing to volunteer, and last but not least the expectations on the part of those we strive to serve as amateur radio operators.

The primary area of concern for us as amateur radio volunteers is the requirements established by Presidential Directive HSPD-5   and

Pennsylvania Governor's Proclamation of December 20, 2004.  Presidential Directive HSPD-5 officially implemented the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and required ALL State, Local, Tribal and non-governmental agencies and organizations to comply with

NIMS. The Governor's Proclamation of December 20, 2004 mandated that NIMS be used for all incident management in the Commonwealth. This means that whether it is the Federal, State, County or Municipal government or organizations such as the Red Cross, Salvation Army or other organization that responds to emergency or disaster situations, all personnel whether paid or volunteer must have successfully completed the FEMA IS-700 NIMS course in order to be compliant. 

Other than these requirement being mandated by the Federal and State governments, there is another and perhaps for some a more compelling reason to obtain these three courses.  In Pennsylvania, in order to be assured that you, as a volunteer, are covered under Workman's Compensation and Personal Liability insurance, when functioning as a volunteer with a local government, you must be a Duly Enrolled Volunteer, prior to any activation. 

Some may say, "well if the big one happens all these rules, regulations and requirements will be thrown out the window."   Maybe yes, maybe no.  Although there are procedures in place to handle these situations where assistance must be obtained from the general public at large, I wouldn't count on the rules just being thrown out.   Even if you are asked or permitted to assist in such a situation, and you weren't a Duly Enrolled Volunteer prior, there is NO guarantee you will be covered under Workman's Compensation and Liability insurances. 

Do you wish to take that chance?  I don't think you do.