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Radio for emergencies
When phones are down, radio still works. These guides cover which radio to use, which channels and frequencies, the licences you need, and how to plan your communications.
Before you transmit: CB, FRS and MURS need no licence. GMRS needs an FCC licence. Ham radio needs an FCC licence and an exam. A Baofeng or other ham radio is not legal on FRS or GMRS channels. Rules differ outside the United States.
Quick reference
| Use | Where |
|---|---|
| CB emergencies | Channel 9 (27.065 MHz) |
| CB highway traffic | Channel 19 (27.185 MHz) |
| Ham 2 m calling | 146.520 MHz FM |
| Ham 70 cm calling | 446.000 MHz FM |
| Marine distress | Channel 16 (156.800 MHz) |
| NOAA weather | 162.400 to 162.550 MHz (7 channels) |
Full channel tables, power limits and sources are in the guides below.
Radio: services and frequenciesWhen phones are down, radio still works.Baofeng and other handheld radiosBaofeng handhelds (UV-5R, BF-F8HP, UV-82 and similar) are cheap, dual-band (2 m and 70 cm) radios.Communication planA radio is only useful if people know when and where to listen.
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