Radio Communications
Radio communication in an emergency situation can be an extremely valuable resource. This sheet focuses on handheld/portable radios, which generally operate on the VHF and UHF bands, have a useful range of 5 miles (for transmitting), and are line of site methods of communication.
Receivers - Can only ‘receive’ radio signals, but can’t send them. One way communication.
Transceivers - Can both send and receive radio signals. Two way communication.
AM / FM Radio Receiver $5 - $25
These radios are commonly found in vehicles, clock radios, and even some mp3 players.
They may be used in an emergency for receiving news, music. and weather updates.
AM Band (520 kHz–1,610 kHz), FM Band (87.5 MHz - 108 MHz)
22 Channels, Range of 1 - 5 miles, Transmit Power of 0.1 - 2 watts (FM, 426-467 MHz, UHF)
FRS Range is usually less than 1 mile. GMRS Range is usually 2 - 5 miles. (many factors...)
*Manufactures claim a range of 20+ miles, but this is extremely difficult to achieve!
40 Channels, Range of 2 - 5 miles, Transmit Power of 4 watts (AM/SSB, 27 MHz, 11m band)
*Possible range of 10+ miles depending on antenna setup, weather, terrain, transmit power...
Handheld ham radios units allow for increased communication flexibility, but still have limits.
Range of 5 - 10 miles, Transmit Power of 5 watts (FM/SSB, 144 - 148 MHz, 2m band VHF)
*You can communicate over greater distances using repeater towers, if they are operational.
This is one way communication only, for listening purposes, and in an emergency situation could provide valuable information and updates. Frequencies covered depend on the price you pay.
Public Safety/Weather, Ham Radio, Aviation, Marine, Railroad, CB, FRS/GMRS, TV, AM, and FM
GPS receivers triangulate your geographical location by receiving radio waves from satellites. This is a one way communication only, and does not support audio/voice communications.
All satellites broadcast continually (24/7) on 1.57542 GHz (L1 signal) and 1.2276 GHz (L2 signal)
Things to remember...
Your antenna plays a major role in both receiving and sending messages.The greater the power (ie 1 watt, 5 watts, 50 watts), the farther the radio signal will go.
When communicating over the radio, always assume that someone else is listening in.
