Why radio helps
Works without the internet
Radios talk directly or through a repeater, so they keep working when cell service and the internet do not.
Family-wide coverage
One GMRS license covers your immediate family, so everyone in the house can use their own radio.
Local help
Neighbors and local operators can check on each other and pass along what they know.
Backup power
A repeater with battery backup, or a simplex node on a generator, keeps the local net alive during an outage.
Radio go-kit
Keep these together in one bag so you can grab it fast.
- A GMRS radio for every adult, programmed and tested
- Spare batteries or a charger that runs from a car or solar panel
- A printed card with frequencies, tones and your call sign
- A notebook and pen to log calls and messages
- A weather radio for alerts
- A flashlight or headlamp
- A spare antenna and a short extension cable
- Earpiece or headset for noisy places
Make a plan
- 1
Program early
Save the repeater and simplex channels in your radio before you ever need them.
- 2
Agree on a plan
Decide with your family which channel to check first and when.
- 3
Practice
Join the weekly net so using the radio feels normal.
- 4
Charge and rotate
Charge radios monthly and swap old batteries.
- 5
Keep it short
Short, clear messages leave room for others on a busy channel.
When you have to call
- Listen first
- Always listen before you talk. Someone may already be calling for help.
- Say it clearly
- Give your call sign, your location and what is wrong.
- Stay calm
- Speak slowly. Spell names and numbers if needed.
- Clear the channel
- If you are not involved, stay off the air so others can pass emergency traffic.
- Call 911 first
- For a life-threatening emergency, call 911 if you can. Use the radio when phones do not work.