Pip, You asked!
ARES Training Levels Explained
* Level 1 - This is our "Entry" Level. Some may not want to advance
beyond this level and that's OK. Level 1 persons are those
who have not completed the 4 basic NIMS (ICS) courses
(IS-100, 200, 700 & 800)
* Don't let this detour you from continuing on however.
Most of us will get to the next level if we just have some
patience and help each other.
* If you elect not to get any of this training there are activities
that you still be able to participate in (parades, races and
similar events.)
* Level 2 - This is where we hope that everyone will eventually land.
* This means that you have completed all of the above
courses, and you are competent operating within the
Incident Command Structure.
* Level 3 - This is our Management Level. This level will require you to
have completed all of the previous requirements in Level 2,
plus the additional NIMS (ICS) courses (IS-300 & 400).
This is mostly for management (E.C.'s, D.E.C.'s and higher),
but anyone can qualify.
* The extra courses IS 300/400 are the structure for
managing within the EMA office or at an incident scene
and they are not everyone's cup of tea.
* We do recognize that IS-300/400 requires multiple days of
actual classroom training that is not easily obtained.
So, if you just can't find the time to fit these class room
courses in, we do have an alternative method for getting
you to Level 3. Completing the following “FREE” and
“ONLINE” courses will act as substitute for you FEMA
Leadership Development Course requirements. You
absolutely will need to complete all 7 of these courses
to get your ICS 300/400 credit. Here are the courses
that you need to take:
IS-120, 230, 240, 241, 242, 244 & 288.
NOTE: If you are interested in obtaining a really nice looking
certificate for completing the entire Professional Series courses,
you will also need to complete IS-235.
Just an aside, I started the EC-001 course and did the sections they say you should do the first week then took the quiz. I scored over 90%, 80% is required to continue so this could be easy. I guess 50+ years of public service radio work taught me something.