Two-Way Radios for Emergencies: What Families Should Know Before Relying on Them

Two-way radios can be useful when people are relatively close and normal phone service is unavailable. But they work best when families understand their limits before an emergency.

What FRS radios are designed to do

The Family Radio Service, or FRS, is intended for short-distance two-way voice communication. FRS radios communicate directly from one radio to another and do not need a cell tower or internet connection.

That makes them useful for situations such as a household, neighborhood, campground, community event, or other setting where people remain relatively close.

Do not plan around the number printed on the package

Radio range is affected by terrain, buildings, walls, trees, antenna position, and other conditions. A maximum-range claim measured under ideal conditions does not tell you how the radio will perform between your actual locations.

Agree on a simple radio routine

• Choose the channel your household will normally use.
• Make sure everyone knows the basic controls.
• Keep instructions with the radios if the controls are not obvious.
• Decide when to listen or check in so batteries are not wasted.
• Keep a meeting plan in case radio contact fails.

Know the licensing difference

FRS is licensed by rule when compliant FRS equipment is used within FCC rules, so an individual license is not required. Other radio services can have different licensing and operating requirements. Before moving to a more advanced radio system, understand the rules that apply to it.

Remember what local radio cannot solve

A short-range handheld radio should not be your plan for reaching someone in another city or state. Local two-way radio is one communication layer. Long-distance communication and family reunification are separate problems that require separate planning.