What is KD7ARET?
Kentucky District 7 Amateur Radio Emergency Team, Inc (KD7ARET) is a non-profit, 501c3 organization that provides emergency communications support to the Emergency Management agencies in North Central Kentucky. KD7ARET operates in the counties of Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, Owen, Pendleton and Scott.
KD7ARET members are licensed (by the Federal Communications Commission) amateur radio operators who volunteer their time, talent and equipment to provide communications when normal systems are inoperable or overloaded. By utilizing amateur radio frequencies, the operators can provide both local and long-distance communications.
KD7ARET members continuously train in communications techniques, such as message handling and the use of different modes of transmission as well as emergency responder subjects like damage assessment and Incident Command System. This training consists of classroom lectures, "on-air" activities and communications services for events sponsored by other organizations. Some of these events include:
- American Diabetes Association's "Tour de Cure"
- Friends of Big Bone "Bad to the Bones Duathalon"
- Ohio River Way's "Paddlefest"
KD7ARET is a part of the Amateur Radio Emergency Services® (ARES) sponsored by the American Radio Relay League. The Board of Directors is comprised of the ARES District Emergency Coordinator and any assistants and the County Emergency Coordinators and their assistants. The Board elects a chairman that oversees the corporation's activities while operational activities are conducted by the various Emergency Coordinators following ARES policies.
Because members volunteer their time and equipment to serve their community, KD7ARET does not levy dues on it's members. Amateur radio operators are also barred by FCC rules from accepting payment for their services. Therefore, KD7ARET survives solely on donations. Your donation would be greatly appreciated and may be tax-deductible (please consult your tax advisor).