Certification
Salt Lake County ARES has established a Certification Plan as a development tool, which is used to help in the process of developing a pool of qualified emergency radio operators. The Certification Plan monitors and tracks the progress of members as they strive to develop their emergency communication operators' skills. The certification plan lists other improvement opportunities that are available. The certification program consists of five levels ranging from the very rudimentary and relatively easily accomplished, through the highly qualified and sophisticated requiring significant effort and dedication. The certification program assists SLCoARES management and members alike in monitoring performance, readiness and in assessing individuals' skills and capabilities. There are five levels in the Certification Plan each level advancement increased the operator ability to actively participate. First each certification level expands the member's equipment inventory, which becomes part of their individual "Grab-n-Go Kit". Second each certification level expands on the members emergency communications training and associated operational experience.
The ARES Certification plan has been selected as the tool for the training and development of our members. It is at the core of our emergency preparedness plan. It provides a measuring stick allowing members to judge their own progress. It establishes a unified direction and sets expectations that apply to every member. It provides a level of overall communication proficiency and readiness that adds value to our organization. It keeps our members actively engaged in the process of self improvement and at a high level of readiness. Several endorsements require special knowledge, ability, and equipment in preparation for assignments at various facilities throughout the valley. These endorsements are encouraged, but are adjunct to the certification plan. We encourage SLCoARES members to activate stations at serve agency sites, so that they can become familiar with the equipment and site procedures. Once a member achieves a given certification level, that certification remains effective as long as the member demonstrates a willingness to remain minimally active with SLCoARES. This currency requirement is fulfilled over the period of a calendar year, by participation in SLCoARES activities on an average of one per month.
The Certification form is available in PDF format.
