Using FRS/GMRS Radios: Setup & Etiquette

Objective

Set up simple, reliable radio comms that work when phones don’t, and use them without chaos.

Setup

• Pick a primary channel and a CTCSS/DCS code.
• Label radios with channel plan; program if model allows.

Etiquette

• PTT: press, pause half‑second, speak clearly.
• Short transmissions; avoid stepping on others.

Message Format

Who–Where–Status–Needs–Next. Example: “WILLIE—HOME—OK—WATER LOW—GOING STORE 18:00.”

Range Reality

• Urban: 0.5–2 km typical; suburban/open: better with elevation.

Real Example

Neighborhood used FRS Ch 3 / CTCSS 18 with twice‑daily windows to share updates during an outage.

Checklist

• Radios + spare batteries
• Cheat card with codes
• Headsets for noisy areas

Contingencies

• Traffic heavy → shift to alternate channel on the plan.

After-Action

Run a weekly radio check so everyone stays proficient.

← Previous | All Articles | Next →