The Miami Dade RACES group can trace its beginnings from the cold war era as part of the Civil Defense Corps of Dade County . As tensions were at an all time high, the RACES group stood fast to react at a moments notice.
The units home was the newly constructed Civil Defense Control Center located on Miller Dr and NW 87Ave. The center was nicknamed “The Bunker”. The unit kept staff on stand by around the clock due to the “Soviet Threat”.
The RACES unit was so integral to the communications of County that the was made into a division in the new Public Safety Department of Metro-Dade County. The Role of the RACES Officer was made an official appointed position by the emergency management director.
As the Cold war came to an end, the group did not stop serving the community . Miami Dade RACES has been activated for countless hurricanes , forest fires , tornados and many more events. The largest activation for the unit was Hurricane Andrew in 1992. The RACES unit deployed over 120 radio operators all over the county to carry out emergency communications for first responders. Due to the power of Andrew many of the counties primary radio systems were not operable for weeks after the storm.
As technology changed, so has the RACES unit. Members of RACES are always trying to sharpen their skills. Members are required to take part in FEMA ICS training courses. The Miami Dade RACES unit also holds emergency training nets to train local amateurs on how to handle emergency radio traffic. Miami-Dade RACES incorporates new and emerging technologies such as digital modes and WinLink.