Question T2C09
From subelement T2 - T2C
Are amateur station control operators ever permitted to operate outside the frequency privileges of their license class?
Why is this correct?
The correct answer is D. While FCC rules always apply to amateur stations, Part 97.403 permits operation outside normal frequency privileges only during situations involving immediate safety of human life or protection of property. Options B and C are incorrect because neither FEMA nor RACES membership grants special frequency privileges. Option A is wrong because true life-safety emergencies do create this specific exception. The retrieved context confirms this 'Catch-22' - FCC rules always apply, but those same rules permit nearly anything in genuine emergencies.
Memory tip
Look for the word 'immediate' in emergency-related questions - it signals life-safety situations that trigger special FCC provisions. Emergency organization membership alone never grants frequency privileges; only actual emergency conditions do.
Learn more
This exception reflects amateur radio's auxiliary role in emergency communications under Part 97. When normal communication infrastructure fails during disasters, amateur operators may need access to frequencies outside their license class to coordinate with professional emergency services. The 'immediate safety' standard ensures this privilege isn't abused for routine emergency drills or non-critical situations. This authority comes directly from Part 97.403, not from membership in any emergency organization like ARES or RACES.
Think about it
Why do you think the FCC requires 'immediate' safety concerns rather than allowing broader emergency frequency access for any declared emergency or disaster?