HONOLULU (KHON2) — Most people in Hawaiʻi who are preparing for emergencies focus on keeping their cell phones charged and stocking up on backup batteries.
But what happens when the cell towers are down, the internet is gone and your phone becomes useless?
That’s where ham radios come in.
“There are digital forms of communication. If someone is affected outside or inside the areas or if something like Waikīkī’s grid is down, we can still send and receive emails including forms and photos and text messages to regular internet,” explained Michael Miller, Assistant Manager for the Pacific Section of the ARRL – The National Association for Amateur Radio and State Government Liaison. “Or we can pass messages to one another with the radios: medical supply lists, request for assistance, missing persons help. What ham radio is a conduit for the community, a backup communication resource.”
A ham radio is a powerful communication tool that works without relying on cell service or the internet. It lets you connect with people in your community, across the country and even in outer space.
Some ham operators even chat with astronauts aboard the International Space Station.
Beyond voice communication, ham radios can also send digital messages, emails and even share forms or photos when traditional systems fail.
Why get licensed?
To operate a ham radio recreationally, you’ll need an FCC license. In true emergencies, unlicensed operators may be allowed to use radios, but having a license beforehand ensures you’re trained and confident.
Getting licensed isn’t difficult:
- The exam focuses on understanding frequencies, safe radio use, and how to maximize communication during disasters.
- Once you pass, your license is valid for 10 years and only requires renewal—no need to retake the test.
- The cost is just $35, making it one of the most affordable preparedness investments you can make.
Training and resources
You don’t have to go it alone. Free and paid training resources are widely available:
- ARRL (The National Association for Amateur Radio): Provides study guides, manuals, and organizes a global network of operators.
- Ham Academy: An online flashcard and practice exam platform to help prepare for the test.
- Local Amateur Radio Clubs: Many offer free or low-cost classes, often via Zoom, with small groups of students.
- Paper flash cards and manuals: For those who prefer offline study, ARRL publishes printed materials to match exam content.
Practicing with these tools helps you feel comfortable with the exam process and confident with your radio when it matters most.
Ham radios today
Forget the bulky rigs of decades past. Modern ham radios are compact, affordable and portable; and many handheld models can easily fit in a backpack or disaster preparedness kit. This makes them ideal for anyone looking to stay connected when other systems go down.
Ham radio operators aren’t first responders, but they are vital community volunteers. The more licensed operators there are, the stronger the communication network becomes.
During disasters, operators can share:
- Medical supply requests.
- Missing persons information.
- Emergency updates.
- Messages for loved ones.
Think of ham radio as a backup communication web, keeping information flowing when other systems fail.
Get started
If you’re ready to add ham radio to your preparedness toolkit:
- Explore ARRL.org for study resources.
- Connect with your local amateur radio club for training opportunities.
- Invest in a starter handheld ham radio.
- Study, take the test, and get licensed.
Hawaiʻi Island ham radio resources: Click here.
Oʻahu resources: Click here and here.
Maui County (including Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi) resources: Click here.
Kauaʻi resources: Click here.
Click here to find clubs and other resources.
With a little preparation, you’ll have the confidence and ability to communicate, even if the grid goes down.
This is KB5LYN signing off.