Episode # 163 "Various Radio Services Available To Preppers; Differences, Pros And Cons"
The ability to communicate during and after an emergency, disaster, or a SHTF event is essential, and may be life-saving.
In this episode, we cover six radio services available to preppers for communication options.
Amateur Radio Service (HAM Radio)
Amateur radio may be the absolute best radio service for disaster or SHTF communications, but it is not the only option, and may not be the best option for you.
It does require an individual license, which requires a test.
Testing fee is around $15, and the license now costs $35 for a ten year license.
VHF & UHF is for short range, or local usage, and repeater use is allowed. HF (high frequency) is capable of world wide communications.
Let’s cover the major services available to preppers
Family Radio Service (FRS) is a two way, short distance, communication service designed for family or group usage.
There are a few limitations, though. The radios must have a non-replaceable antenna and the power is limited to one half watt.
Channel three on FRS, 462.6125 FM, is the FRS Prepper frequency
The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) has thirty channelized frequencies in the 462 MHz and 467 MHz range. A license is required, but there is no license, and the license govers the entire family or group.
More power is allowed on GMRS than FRS/MURS. Radios may have replacable antennas, and repeater use is allowed.
The GMRS Prepper channel is channel 20
The Mutual-Use Radio Service (MURS) shares the use of five channelized VHF frequencies 151 - 154 MHz. MURS is often used on construction sites, and no license is required.
The MURS prepper channel is channel 3
Citizen Band Radio (CB) peaked in popularity in the late 1970s, but is still popular with many today. It is limited in power to a legal limit of four watts, though many will use high powered amplifiers, and there is no license required.
Still, it’s a a good tool to have in our toolbox.
VHF Maritime Radio Service. (Marine Band)
Channel 16 is recognized worldwide as the distress, safety, and calling channel 156.800
The Marine Prepper frequency is 156.625 mHz.
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