Many groups have augmented their ham radio operators with FRS/GMRS radios. Here are the frequencies for the 22 channels used by FRS/GMRS. Notice that they are just above the Amateur 70cm band frequencies. This means that you can program these into your dual band HT and then be able to scan the FRS/GMRS bands to listen for folks calling for help after a disaster. You can't transmit on these frequencies, but you can listen on them. Thanks to Dave Anderson, K7ORB, for this list. Dave's blog is HERE.
FRS/GMRS Radios
M FREQUENCY M FREQUENCY .
1 462.5625 Shared 12 467.6625 FRS Only
2 462.5875 Shared 13 467.6875 FRS Only
3 462.6125 Shared 14 467.7125 FRS Only
4 462.6375 Shared 15 462.550 GMRS Only
5 462.6625 Shared 16 462.575 GMRS Only
6 462.6875 Shared 17 462.600 GMRS Only
7 462.7125 Shared 18 462.625 GMRS Only
8 467.5625 FRS Only 19 462.650 GMRS Only
9 467.5875 FRS Only 20 462.675 GMRS Only
10 467.6125 FRS Only 21 462.700 GMRS Only
11 467.6375 FRS Only 22 462.725 GMRS Only
If you have a scanner radio, it is also a good idea to program these into your scanner.
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ERC is fortunate to have among its ranks many ham radio operators who can do VHF, UHF, HF and Digital Modes. Some can do CW. All of these modes will be in use during an actual disaster and having operators who already have the equipment and know-how to work these modes is a MAJOR plus. For the rest of you, consider expanding your horizons to include modes above and beyond the ones you currently work.
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Make sure your grab-and-go kit and everything in it has your contact information with it or on it. This is especially true of your radios. In a disaster, items get loaned or operators get switched out. Having your contact info on your gear can mean the difference between getting your stuff back and never seeing it again.
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Along that same line, consider ham radio insurance. It is very inexpensive and will replace everything including the computers used to control your radios. There are two main companies providing this type of insurance. One is endorsed by the ARRL and one is not. The rates and coverage are different and you are encouraged to check out both companies and pick the one that is best for you. Just Google Ham Radio Insurance and you will get a great list of providers.
The VERY BEST discussion of ham radio insurance (direct or as a rider on your home/car insurance) is located HERE. Everybody should read this. You will learn something from reading this brief overview and it is very well researched and written.
The VERY BEST discussion of ham radio insurance (direct or as a rider on your home/car insurance) is located HERE. Everybody should read this. You will learn something from reading this brief overview and it is very well researched and written.
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Finally, it you scroll down to the ERC entry on this blog for 07/10/2013 you will find the information we discussed last month on useful ham radio scanning modes that will be VERY useful in a disaster. Nobody can remember how to get into and out of all these modes, so you need a "cheat sheet" that will summarize the information for you. You can build your own from your radio's user manual or you can obtain one of those sold on eBay and by AES and by other resellers.
Until next time - N7OZH
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Until next time - N7OZH
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