It is often the case in a disaster that communications systems are destroyed or overloaded. Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief has communications teams whose role is to support the ministry of other teams responding to a disaster. Through the use of amateur radio, these teams are able to assist in the coordination, placement, supply, and support of other ministry teams. The communications team may also assist disaster relief ministries in coordinating the overall incident command so that needs are met and people are not overlooked in the response.

Volunteers in many associations are also involved in local amateur radio clubs. An FCC license is required for participation. Morse Code is NO LONGER REQUIRED for obtaining a license and hand-held radios have become affordable, allowing many more volunteers to be available with emergency communications.