Each county in the West Central Florida Section has an Emergency Coordinator (EC.) The EC is appointed by the Section Manager and in consultation with the SEC.

It is at the local level where most of the real emergency organizing gets accomplished, because this is the level at which most emergencies occur and the level at which ARES leaders make direct contact with the ARES member-volunteers and with the officials of the agencies to be served. The local EC is therefore the key contact in the ARES. The EC is in charge of all ARES activities in his/her area, not just one interest group, one agency, one club or one band.

The local Emergency Coordinator (EC) may appoint one or more Assistant Emergency Coordinators (AEC) to assist him in the administration of his ARES program.

The ARES Member is the key to the success of the ARES program and provide the manpower necessary for ARES to function.  As mentioned before in this document, every licensed amateur, regardless of membership in ARRL or any other local or national organization, is eligible for membership in the ARES. The only qualification, other than possession of an Amateur Radio license, is a sincere desire to serve.  ARES members are encouraged to be a part of a local club, just like we encourage all hams to have a local club, which is a base of support for them.  However, it is not a requirement to join ARES.