The goals of SLONCARES include, but are not limited to:

• Recruiting and training a pool of Amateur Radio operators qualified to provide backup emergency communications

• Deploy those operators at city ECC facilities or Field Positions whenever circumstances require.

• Utilize those operators wisely, safely and with due regard and respect for the effort they make and the service they provide.  Deploy them quickly enough, and in sufficient numbers to be of timely service.

• Assist those operators in enhancing their experience as emergency communications volunteers.

• Assist those operators in enhancing their Amateur Radio experience.

• Provide reassurance to city officials in the greater Atascadero/Paso Robles area that communications will be available to them in an emergency.

Anyone living in the greater Atascadero/Paso Robles area is eligible to become a member of SLONCARES.  A valid FCC Amateur Radio Operator License, Technician class or higher is required.  Members must submit to a background check and register with the City  as Volunteer Emergency Workers.

A SLONCARES member agrees to participate in training and drills as provided.  When called out, a member also agrees to serve as a radio operator at the Atascadero/Paso Robles ECC or other tactical locations as required by the event.  Equipment to be operated may also include commercial radio systems and public safety radio systems.  Members should monitor the W6SLO repeaters on 146.670 and 444.100 MHz anytime normal communications systems fail or if local news broadcasts indicate a major event has occurred. If the repeaters are not available, members should monitor the alternate repeaters on 146.730 and 147.360, or 146.520 simplex.