Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES)
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) is composed of certified Radio Amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes.
Every certified Radio Amateur, whether or not a member of RAC or any other local or regional organization, is eligible for membership in the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES). The only qualification is a sincere desire to serve. The possession of emergency-powered equipment is desirable but not a requirement.
Any and all use of the RAC Amateur Emergency Service & Design trademark requires a call sign or permission from Radio Amateurs of Canada, Inc.
Taken directly from the Radio Amateurs of Canada Website