Who are we?

The Cypress Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) team members are part of a unique volunteer group. Each member is a licensed ham radio operator, ranging from having their “technician” to “extra” class FCC license. Some of our team members have had their licenses since the 1950’s when Morse Code was a prevailing technology.

Founded in 1952, the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) is a public service that provides communications personnel to government agencies in times of extraordinary need. During periods of activation, RACES personnel are called upon to perform many tasks for the government agencies they serve. Although the exact nature of each activation will be different, the common thread is communications.

Whatever need arises, trained RACES personnel are ready and prepared to help. RACES groups develop and maintain their communications ability by training throughout the year with special exercises and public-service events. When an emergency occurs, the Cypress RACES team will be there to meet the challenge.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is responsible for the creation and regulation of RACES operations, administration of the service is the responsibility of FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency. FEMA is charged with the task of administrating RACES groups because of its role in national disaster preparedness and disaster aid and recovery.

Traditional RACES operations involve emergency message handling on Amateur Radio Service frequencies. These operations typically involve messages between critical locations such as hospitals, emergency services, emergency shelters, and any other locations where communication is needed.

These communications are handled in any mode available, with 2 meters FM being the most prevalent. Other tasks that RACES personnel are involved with may not involve amateur-radio communications. For example, RACES communicators may become involved in public-safety or other government communications, and emergency equipment repair.

How do I apply?

There is an application that you can fill out, print, sign and mail to or drop off at the Cypress Police Department; or you can call the Community Services Unit at (714) 229-6625 or (714) 229-6626 and have an application mailed to you. Applications are also available at the front desk of the police station located at 5275 Orange Ave.

For additional information or questions on our RACES program, contact Cypress Police Department Volunteer RACES Coordinator Loree Erpelding at (714) 229-6625 or by e-mail at cypd@cypressca.org.

Why become a Cypress RACES member?

The primary purpose of the Cypress RACES team is to provide auxiliary or backup communications to the City of Cypress in the event of a disaster, local emergency or public service events.

Members also have the opportunity to become an integral part of the Cypress Police Department, meet new people, gain valuable experience and participate as part of emergency management operations throughout Orange County.

What will I be doing?

RACES members function under the guidance of a Chief Radio Officer, Chief Technology Officer and a Logistics Officer. The other team members are radio operators. The entire team is managed by a Police Services Officer.

Team members donate their time, qualifications and expertise to train and prepare for any event needing a communications capability. Team members can be activated for a localized or large-scale disaster, to work pre-planned events, or to serve at the discretion of the Chief of Police and/or the Incident Commander.

Each team member agrees to attend regular meetings, participate in a weekly ham radio NET, attend training sessions, and participate in public events within the county.

Will it cost me anything?

There is no cost to become a RACES team member, however it is desirable to own your own ham radio. The police department provides uniforms, radio room equipment, and other miscellaneous equipment.

How old do I have to be?

Cypress Police Department Volunteer Corps. Members must be at least 18 years of age or older.

What are the requirements?

Due to the structure of FEMA, each RACES group is, in turn, administrated by a local government agency responsible for disaster services. Cypress RACES operations are under the auspices of the Cypress Police Department, Volunteer Corps.

In order to fulfill that purpose and meet our responsibilities, our organization requires a participation commitment by our member volunteers.

• Complete and submit a Cypress Volunteer Application with a RACES supplemental application.
• Successfully complete the interview process.
• Pass a background investigation/check conducted by the Cypress Police Department.
• Complete at a minimum your technician license prior to appoint to the team.
• Completion FEMA classes IS100, IS200, and IS700.
• Possess a valid California Driver’s License.