FRS Radios
by
Steve Brown
The board would like to forward a strong recommendation for the use of FRS radios. They have proved invaluable in recent emergency situations during our hikes and trail maintenance events. They provide the security of being able to contact other members of the group in case of an accident, injury, or loss of direction.
There are some negative aspects of the radios, however. They have limited range, either 2 or 5 miles, depending on the radio, and are generally limited to line-of-sight (you can’t communicate with someone on the other side of the ridge). They may be perceived as an easy solution to any problem which may occur. This perception is wrong. They should be viewed as a tool, and not as a substitute for common sense.
It’s critical that all hikers be on the same channel and sub-channel. For HTMC hikes this is channel 7, and sub-channel 14
Turn the radio on while hiking. The coordinator may have an urgent communication for the group, for example, “A flash flood is coming. Stay out of the stream”.
Radio use should be limited to essential communications. Random chatter degrades the wilderness experience for all who are forced to listen to it.
Remember –
September, 2006 - Steve Brown