Do You Really Know how to Use a Radio?
For survival, or if you're going off the beaten path on a longer expedition, a radio is a necessity. A good radio can be seem like an expensive investment, but it's money well spent. To put it this way: if you can't afford a radio, you can't afford the expedition in the first place.
In this article we'll discuss how to effectively use a radio, and what you need to consider when using a radio in and between several groups.
Tip #1: More channels isn't better
Pick a radio that has the least amount of channels possible for your use. A problem with multi-channeled radio sets, is that people often get confused and use the wrong ones. Use a working channel, and agree upon a priority channel you can switch to in case of emergencies to make sure no one will break the communication with other chat.
Make sure it's compatible
If you're dealing with coast guard or forest rangers, make sure that your radio is compatible and that you know the emergency channel (16). Another useful thing to know is the channel for the World Service.
Make sure that the chosen frequencies will work in the area where you're staying. Signal will always be weaker in steep gully and valley bottoms. You will get better signal at high ground, or across water.
Keep your radio safe
Make sure you keep your radio safe, it can be your lifeline in an emergency. Try to keep the radio on you, and not in your pack.
How to prevent confusion
For larger groups of people, or several groups, set up a manned base radio with 2-way communication, and discourage cross-group talk without going through base. With many users, radio can quickly get confusing if not set up an used correctly.
Make a plan with scheduled calls morning and evening. This can typically be situation reports to base with location, what's been done and plans for the next day. In the morning you can receive weather updates from base, time-check and other relevant information.
If you're undertaking a dangerous part of a expedition, notify base to stay alert for additional calls for help, for an immediate response.
If two consecutive calls are missed, an emergency plan should be put in action. Return to, or stay at, the last reported location and wait for contact.
Click, think, talk
When clicking the transmitter button, it will always take some time. To prevent clipping, make sure you press the button, wait a second or two and then talk -- basically: press, think, talk. Some people love to talk, and a bit too much, especially on radio. Then it can help to write down what you're going to say before talking -- to prevent verbal diarrhea.
For longer messages, have a pen and paper handy to take notes.
Shorter messages will keep noise and transmissions to a minimum and preserve batteries.
RSVP
Remember the acronym RSVP:
- Rhytm -- No ehms or uhms. When spelling out place names, use the phonetic alphabet
- Speed -- Talk slowly and clearly
- Volume -- Speak softly
- Pitch -- Use a higher pitch than normal