Normally, in a time of crisis, an "amateur" is not the first person you might call. But when communications networks go down, amateur radio operators – or hams – and their gear can get communities connected to the outside world via the radio waves.

During the recent Field Day activities hosted by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), ham operators and clubs across North America spent 48 hours demonstrating their communications abilities.

Many similar camps are currently operating in flood-ravaged parts of the Midwest

Hams work in conjunction with other volunteer groups such as the Military Affiliated Radio Stations (MARS) and Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES)

Hams are also reaching out to hospitals in an effort to keep them connected if primary communications systems fail

Anyone can get an entry-level Technical Class license by taking a 35-question exam administered by the FCC