Most of us have home phones and cell phones, but what do you do during an emergency when there's no power and they stop working?

Well several members of the Pocatello Amatuer Radio Club practiced setting up emergency communication in case something like that ever happens.

Club members say it's important to know about how to use ham radios in case of an emergency, and all you need to get started is some equipment and a license from the FCC. Sierra Tracy, the youngest club member said, "I had to read a big book and take a test."

Sierra took the FCC test with her Dad Ray in April becoming the youngest member of the Pocatello Amatuer Radio Club. And even she knows how important radio is during an emergency. Sierra said, "I like it because when you're in trouble you can call people when the phone lines are down."

And that's exactly what these radio operators are practicing. With a few generators and antenna's they're learning how to set-up emergency communications.

In this trailor they've already contacted people in California, Arkansas, and even parts of Canada. And the practice comes in handy.

Radio communication like this was used after Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast completely knocking out power. Ray Tracy, Sierra's Father said, "Once commercial power's gone regular phones don't work, cell phones don't work. But the ham radio operator with the battery out of his truck can get you a message out, and tell people that you need help."

Radio communication was even used to get supplies to Idaho after the Teton Dam broke. Larry Babb, a PARC member said, "One of the first things that they needed in Rexburg was insulin. And they transferred that traffic through amamtuer radio repeaters to Salt Lake, and they had a fixed wing aircraft in the air within a half hour."

Now most club members won't need to use their skills after a major disaster, but say it's fun to practice. "Get the equipment then you're good to go," said Ray.

Club members say you don't need to know much about electronics or radio communication to get started. If you have any questions or want to learn about getting a license just contact the Pocatello Amatuer Radio Club.