Introduction
When a disaster or major emergency strikes, normal communication channels may be disrupted or overloaded. That’s why it’s important to have a backup plan in place so you can stay in touch with loved ones and get information about what’s happening.
One of the most reliable ways to do this is with a radio. But not just any radio will do. In order to be effective, your emergency radio should meet certain criteria. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a radio for your emergency kit.
Portability:
Your radio should be small and light enough to take with you if you need to evacuate. It should also have a built-in handle or strap for easy carrying.
Range:
Depending on the size of your home or apartment, you may need a radio with different range capabilities. If you live in a large home, you may want to consider a long-range radio that can reach up to 50 miles. For smaller homes or apartments, a mid-range radio with a range of up to 25 miles should suffice.
Frequency:
Your radio should be able to receive both AM and FM frequencies, as well as numerous weather channels. This will ensure that you have access to the widest possible range of information during an emergency situation.
Power:
Your emergency radio should be able to run on multiple power sources, including batteries, solar power, and a hand crank. This way, you’ll always be able to keep it running, no matter what the situation is.
The Different Types of Radios
There are many different types of radios that can be used in an emergency situation. The most important thing is to have a radio that can receive emergency broadcasts. But there are other factors to consider as well. In this article, we’ll go over the different types of radios and what they’re best used for.
Handheld Radios
Handheld radios, also called walkie-talkies, are small, portable radios that usually have a range of about 20 to 30 miles. They can be powered by batteries or by an AC adapter, and some models come with a built-in battery charger. Most handheld radios can be used with headphones or an external speaker.
Most handheld radios have a push-to-talk (PTT) button that you press to talk and release to listen. Some models also have a VOX (voice-activated) feature that allows you to talk without pressing the PTT button. Handheld radios are available in both analog and digital models.
Mobile Radios
On the road or in the air, public safety personnel needs reliable voice and data communications wherever they are. That’s why Motorola offers a full suite of mobile radios that deliver all the features and benefits you need—in a single radio platform. With coverage in even the most remote locations and integrated data capabilities, these radios keep your people connected and informed—whether your mission takes you across town or across the country.
Portable Radios
From public safety to manufacturing to retail, workers in every industry need reliable voice and data communications to stay productive and safe. That’s why Motorola offers a range of portable two-way radios that deliver all the features and benefits you need—in a durable, compact design. With coverage in even the most remote locations and integrated data capabilities, these radios keep your people connected and informed—whether your team is on-site or on the move.
Base Radios
There are numerous types of radios on the market today, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. In an emergency situation, you need a reliable radio that will keep you informed and connected. Here is a look at some of the most popular types of radios available:
Base radios are designed for use in a fixed location, such as your home or office. They usually come with AC power adapters and can also be powered by batteries. Many base radios also come with AM/FM tuning, allowing you to receive news and information from your local radio stations.
Portable radios are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry with you. They run on batteries, so you’ll need to make sure you have fresh batteries on hand in an emergency. Portable radios are available in both AM/FM models and weather-band models. Weather-band models allow you to receive emergency broadcasts from the National Weather Service, which can be vital information in severe weather situations.
Handheld radios are similar to portable radios, but they are even smaller and more lightweight. They are designed to be easy to operate with one hand, making them ideal for use in emergencies. Handheld radios typically have a shorter range than portable or base radios, but they can be a valuable tool in an emergency situation.
CB (Citizen’s Band) radios are primarily used for two-way communication between people in vehicles or other mobile applications. In an emergency situation, CB radio can be used to communicate with others who may be able to provide help or assistance. CB radios typically have a range of about 10 miles (16 km), although this can vary depending on terrain and other factors.
What to Look for in an Emergency Radio?
In an emergency, you’ll want a radio that can keep you informed of the situation and help you communicate with others. There are a few things to look for when choosing an emergency radio. First, you’ll want a radio that can receive a variety of channels, including AM, FM, and weather. You’ll also want a radio that can be powered by a variety of sources, including batteries, solar, and hand crank.
Battery Life
When SHTF, you’ll want a radio that can go the distance without needing a charge. The average lifespan of an emergency radio is about 7-10 days, but some can last up to 3 weeks. If you live in an area prone to power outages, it’s a good idea to invest in radio with long battery life.
Solar and hand-crank radios are great for extended use, as they can be charged using renewable energy sources. However, these radios tend to be more expensive than their battery-operated counterparts. If you’re on a budget, look for a radio with AA or AAA batteries. These are readily available and easy to replace when they run out of power.
NOAA Certification
An emergency radio is a vital piece of equipment to have on hand in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency situation. One of the most important things to look for when choosing an emergency radio is NOAA certification.
NOAA, or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is responsible for providing weather alerts and forecasts in the event of severe weather conditions. An NOAA-certified radio will be able to receive these alerts and keep you informed of any danger that may be headed your way.
In addition to NOAA certification, you should also look for an emergency radio that has multiple power options. A solar-powered radio is a good choice, as it can be charged by the sun even when there is no electricity available. A hand-crank radio is another good option, as it can be powered by manual labor if necessary.
Finally, make sure that the emergency radio you choose has a clear and easy-to-read display. In an emergency situation, you may not have time to fiddle with buttons and figure out how to use complicated features. A simple display with large buttons will be much easier to use in a time of crisis.
AM/FM/WB Capability
An emergency radio should be able to access a variety of different types of stations, including AM, FM, and WB. This way, you can stay up-to-date on weather conditions, traffic reports, and other important information.
Portability
One of the first things you’ll want to consider when shopping for an emergency radio is portability. If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, earthquakes, or tornadoes, you’ll want a radio that can easily be transported from one location to another. Some radios come with carrying cases, while others are small enough to fit in a backpack or purse.
Another factor to consider when choosing a portable emergency radio is the number of batteries it uses. Some radios require AA or AAA batteries, while others come with rechargeable batteries. If you plan on using your radio during a power outage, you’ll want to make sure it has plenty of battery life.
Finally, you’ll want to think about how you plan on using your emergency radio. If you only need it for occasional use, such as during a thunderstorm, a basic AM/FM model will suffice. However, if you’re looking for a radio that can also provide information in case of an emergency, such as weather and news reports, you’ll want to choose a model that includes these features.
Conclusion
While an emergency radio is a vital tool that can help you stay informed and connected during a crisis, it’s important to remember that it’s just one part of your emergency preparedness plan. Be sure to have a backup power source for your radio, as well as other essential supplies like food, water, and first-aid supplies. By taking the time to plan ahead, you can be better prepared for whatever emergency situation you may face.