The Pinellas County ACS Unit provides, supplements, or augments Government communications during emergencies where normal communication systems have sustained damaged, are being over taxed or over-burdened, or backup radio operators are required. ACS may be used in a wide variety of situations

ARES - Our Mission

Our mission is to provide effective temporary non-government communications links for agencies providing for the public welfare. This occurs when existing communication links become damaged or over-loaded due to disasters, emergencies, or other unusual events. Where no existing communications channels exist, ARES will create them, and maintain them until permanent facilities can be established. When Pinellas County activates ACS, some ARES ongoing operations may come under ACS command and control.

SKYWARN - Our Mission

To assist the National Weather Service of the U.S. Commerce Dept. secure critical weather information through a network of trained severe weather spotters. This information, coupled with radar, satellite and other data enables the National Weather Service to issue more timely and accurate warnings to the Public for tornados, severe thunderstorms, and flash floods.