Emergency Radios Guide

Radios provide communication and information when other systems fail. Unlike phones that depend on towers and internet, radios work as long as they have power. Different types serve different purposes in emergency preparedness.

This guide covers the main radio types relevant to emergency preparedness: weather radios for receiving alerts, two way radios for local communication, and an introduction to amateur (ham) radio for more serious preparedness.

Weather Radios

NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts continuous weather information and emergency alerts. Every household should have one.

Key Features to Look For

SAME technology: Specific Area Message Encoding allows programming for your specific county. Radio alerts only for your area, not distant locations.

Alert tones: Automatic alarm sounds when emergency alerts broadcast, even when radio is in standby mode.

Battery backup: Works during power outages. Some models include hand crank or solar charging.

AM/FM bands: Combined weather and regular radio reception provides broader information access.

Usage

Program your county code for SAME alerts. Test the alert function. Keep batteries fresh. Leave in standby mode to receive automatic alerts. Check local frequencies for your area.

Two Way Radios

Two way radios allow direct communication between family members without cell towers or infrastructure.

FRS Radios (Family Radio Service)

No license required. Limited power (up to 2 watts). Realistic range: 0.5 to 2 miles in typical conditions. Good for neighborhood and local communication. Inexpensive and easy to use.

GMRS Radios (General Mobile Radio Service)

License required (simple application, no test). Higher power (up to 50 watts). Better range: 2 to 25+ miles depending on terrain and equipment. Can use repeaters for extended range. Worth considering for serious preparedness.

Two Way Radio Tips

Buy radios in matched sets. Test range in your actual area. Terrain dramatically affects range. Establish channel and privacy code assignments for your family. Practice communication protocols.

Amateur (Ham) Radio

Ham radio offers the most capable emergency communication but requires licensing and more knowledge.

Why Ham Radio for Emergencies

Long range communication when all else fails. Local, regional, and worldwide reach. Active emergency communication networks. Community of skilled operators willing to help during disasters.

Getting Licensed

Three license levels: Technician (entry), General, Extra. Technician license requires passing a 35 question multiple choice exam. Many free study resources available online. Local clubs often offer classes and testing.

Getting Started

Start with Technician license. A basic handheld radio costs $30 to $100. Join local amateur radio club. Practice and learn before emergencies occur. Many hams participate in emergency communication networks.

Power Considerations

Battery Options

Most portable radios use AA batteries, rechargeable battery packs, or both. Stock plenty of fresh batteries. Consider rechargeable options with solar or hand crank charging.

Hand Crank Radios

Provide power independence. One minute of cranking typically provides 10 to 30 minutes of use. Good for weather radios. Less practical for two way communication due to higher power needs.

Solar Charging

Some radios include built in solar panels. External solar chargers can power radios with rechargeable batteries. Reliable when other power sources fail.

Quick Reference Checklist

• NOAA weather radio with SAME programming
• Weather radio programmed for your county
• Batteries for weather radio
• FRS or GMRS radios for family (at least 2)
• Established channel assignments
• Spare batteries for two way radios
• Hand crank or solar charging option
• Family trained on radio use
• Consider ham radio license for serious preparedness