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Ham Radio Makes its Mark in California Fires.

As the devastating firestorms continue to rage across Southern California, amateur radio operators are playing a crucial role in emergency communications and fire prevention efforts. The Palisades Fire, which has been burning since January 7, 2025, has already destroyed thousands of structures and forced countless residents to evacuate. What can we learn from this as an Indiana County volunteer communications organization? Read on to see how ham radio oeprators – and ultimately organizations like ICEMARC – do what they do for lifesaving efforts through amateur radio.

In the face of this crisis, ham radio operators have stepped up to serve their communities in various capacities. The Orange County Fire Watch (OCFW) program has deployed ham radio operators to preassigned locations within parks and open spaces to report conditions and spot potential fire outbreaks.

These dedicated individuals use amateur radio bands to communicate in areas where mobile networks may be weak or completely unavailable. Towers are burnt out. Power is down. Cellular communications has gone up in smoke, so to speak. Gordon West, WB6NOA, an ARRL National Instructor, virtual speaker at ICEMARC University and one of the deployed volunteers, reports that hams are stationed on hilltops throughout the ARRL Orange Section. They are monitoring wind and humidity levels, watching for ash fall, scanning for spot fires, and maintaining a visible presence at trailheads.

The South Orange Amateur Radio Association (SOARA), an ARRL Special Service Club, has provided linked 2-meter and 70-centimeter repeaters to support OCFW hams during their deployments. A formal OCFW Net Control Station (NCS) coordinates these efforts throughout the emergency.

In addition to fire watch duties, radio amateurs are ready to serve at evacuation centers, providing vital communication support as needed. The ARRL Headquarters staff has been in contact with volunteers and ham radio groups in the affected areas, offering material support for any activations.

However, the situation is not without challenges. Firefighting efforts have been complicated by drone activity in the area. Officials report at least 40 incidents involving drones, which have forced firefighters to temporarily ground air operations.

This interference highlights the importance of clear communication channels and the valuable role that ham radio operators can play in coordinating emergency responses.

While some debate the extent of amateur radio’s impact in modern emergency situations, the current crisis demonstrates that ham operators absolutely continue to provide valuable services. From spotting fires before they get out of control to facilitating communication in areas with compromised infrastructure, these volunteers make a huge difference. As the Palisades Fire continues to threaten lives and property, the amateur radio community remains vigilant and ready to assist. Their dedication and expertise serve as a reminder of the enduring value of radio communication in times of crisis, even in our highly connected digital age.

Will we have an emergency as critical as this in Indiana County, Pennsylvania? One would hope not! But the readiness of ham radio operators like ICEMARC volunteers may provide life-saving service to our friends and neighbors right here in Western Pa.