In Saratoga, they are the backup for the city's emergency services. There are 289 licensed volunteer amateur radio operators in Saratoga, with about 30 of them active.

On June 26 and 27, the Saratoga Amateur Radio Association held its annual field day in Saratoga.

"The purpose of the field day is to test our capability in emergency operations," said Richard Crouch of the association.

The club set up camp at a summit of Highway 9, in Castle Rock State Park.

"We practiced the skills, expertise and planning required in case of an emergency," said Crouch. "The objective was to get more involved. I am sure it will double in size next year."

"Let's hope that there isn't an emergency in the city. But if there is one, we are ready to help," said Crouch.

The field day is a nationwide program in which every amateur radio club is encouraged to compete.

"It is a test to see who can get the equipment up and running without a commercial source of power," said Crouch.

About 15 radio operators showed up for the field day that was held last month. Some used generators and others used solar power to crank up their radios.

Christina Sand has been a part of the club for more than a year. "A very dear friend of mine who was a radio operator helped out during Sept. 11," said Sand. She said he inspired her to become an amateur radio operator.

Hal Netter, a fire-prevention inspector with the Saratoga Fire Department, said, "Amateur radio operators serve as auxiliary and additional help during disasters and emergencies. If there is a large fire in Saratoga, amateur radio operators will be called in to help us."

The new fire station being built in Saratoga will have space for an amateur radio operator along with other dispatchers. "There is a site at City Hall, too," said Netter.

One of the most important nights for the association is Halloween.

"About 12 years ago, some schools in Saratoga lost around $12,000 in vandalism and property damage during Halloween night," said Rob Vance, an amateur radio operator.

Ever since, the amateur radio association has helped the school district by patrolling the school areas with law enforcement agencies. "We have volunteers stationed around the schools. We are also in close contact with the Sheriff's Department so that we can report on stuff," said Vance.

He said that whenever normal communication services are disrupted, amateur radio operators step in and help. The association had also helped out emergency services during the Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989.

To find out more about amateur radio, log on to www.arrl.org. More information on the Saratoga Amateur Radio Association can be found at www.qsl.net/k6sa.htm.