ARECC stands for Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Course. The ARRL (American Radio Relay League) offers a basic, an intermediate, and an advanced level course in emergency communications. These courses are offered over the Internet through the Connecticut Distance Learning Consortium. There is usually one class at each level offered each month. The courses cost $45 for ARRL members and $75 for non-members. Upon successful completion of the course you will receive a certificate from the ARRL. See the ARRL Certification and Continuing Education Web page for more information, including details about how you may be reimbursed for taking the course.

ARECC courses have specific starting dates and run for eight weeks each. You will be assigned to a "class", and you can optionally interact with the other students. You will also be assigned a mentor. You will have "homework" which you must turn in to your mentor. Your mentor will also answer questions you may have about the course material.

One alternative to taking the online course is to order the ARECC course book(s) from the ARRL and study by yourself. Upon completing your studies, you may find a local ARRL-VE team that can give you the exam for the course. If you successfully complete the exam, you will receive a certificate from the ARRL.

There are other alternatives, such as hybrid classes (partly over the Internet and partly in a local classroom) and study groups (you read the book and get guidance from an instructor).

Although these courses are useful to anyone interested in emergency communications, there is heavy emphasis on ARES® operations. St. Louis County ARES® strongly recommends that you take at least the Level I course.

© 2008 St. Louis County ARES®

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