The following frequencies and modes have been pre-determined for suggested use of the Amateur Radio Emergency Service during a declared emergency, or a disaster declared or otherwise, occurring anywhere in Canada. These frequencies have been registered with the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) for its listings of Canadian national emergency frequencies in IARU Region 2.
These are suggested frequencies and should not be construed as meaning that other HF frequencies may not be considered for Emcomm operations.
No Amateur Radio operator or group has exclusive ownership of any particular frequency on any band and, while common sense and courtesy logically would dictate that other Radio Amateurs should keep clear of frequencies being used for emergency or disaster operations, the affected ARES Net Control Station (NCS) must be prepared to move up or down from the pre-determined frequency, as required, in order to conduct operations. Entering into an on-air argument must be avoided.
| Single Sideband | CW | Digital | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Band | Frequency | Tactical | Frequency | Tactical | Frequency | Tactical |
| 80 M | 3.675 MHz LSB | Alfa | 3.535 MHz | Golf | 3.596 MHz | Mike |
| 40 M | 7.135 MHz LSB | Bravo | 7.035 MHz | Hotel | 7.096 MHz | November |
| 20 M | 14.135 MHz USB | Charlie | 14.035 MHz | India | 14.096 MHz | Oscar |
| 17 M | 18.135 MHz USB | Delta | 18.075 MHz | Juliet | 18.096 MHz | Papa |
| 15 M | 21.235 MHz USB | Echo | 21.035 MHz | Kilo | 21.096 MHz | Quebec |
| 10 M | 28.235 MHz USB | Foxtrot | 28.035 MHz | Lima | 28.096 MHz | Romeo |
The frequencies may also be used during a local ARES exercise or for RAC/ARRL Simulated Emergency Test (SET) operations held annually each Fall, provided such operations do not interfere with those of higher priority.
Each frequency has been given a tactical designation to facilitate quick change to another pre-determined frequency and/or mode by simply indicating the designation. Use of the tactical designations, while optional, is encouraged.
In all cases, these frequencies must be considered as being “plus or minus” to allow for QRM or other conditions impeding useful communications.
Should two or more ARES units wish to use a frequency at the same time for a simulated emergency exercise, consideration should be given to making the exercise “joint” and to work together. Failing that, the frequency should go to the ARES group that first began operations there. Of course, if a real emergency should occur during the exercise and the frequency is required, the unit conducting the exercise is expected to cease transmissions immediately, relinquish the frequency and stand by in case assistance is requested.
Comments and suggestions concerning this list may be submitted, or for further information, please contact the Community Services Officer .