FRS: Family
Radio Service FRS radios are designed for short-range, license-free
communication. Operating in the UHF spectrum (specifically 462–467 MHz), they
are widely available, affordable, and easy to use. FRS radios typically have a
fixed antenna and modest power limiting their effective range to approximately
0.5–2 miles, depending on terrain and obstructions.
GMRS: General Mobile Radio
Service GMRS radios operate on many of the same frequencies as FRS but allow for
higher power (up to 50 watts with base stations and repeaters), removable
antennas, and extended range. Unlike FRS, GMRS use requires an FCC license, but
no exam. GMRS is well-suited to larger groups, neighborhood teams, and scenarios
requiring interoperability with mobile or base units.
The FCC assigns 22 shared
channels for FRS/GMRS use:
• Channels 1-7: Shared FRS/GMRS channels • Channels
8-14: FRS only (low power)
• Channels 15-22: Shared FRS/GMRS (higher power
permitted for GMRS) FRS radios may use all 22 channels, but only at lower power
settings. GMRS radios, with a license, may use higher power and repeaters on
select channels.
Emergency Communication Priorities In a crisis, the primary
communication needs are:
• Relaying information about hazards or threats
•
Requesting medical or rescue assistance
• Coordinating resources and response
teams
• Maintaining situational awareness within a group. To optimize limited
radio bandwidth, disciplined channel use is essential.
Best Practices for
Channel Selection.
Designating Primary and Secondary Channels Select a primary
channel for group-wide emergency communication. A secondary channel can be
reserved for less urgent traffic or specific teams (medical, logistics, etc.).
For example:
• Channel 3: Primary emergency channel (widely used by many
preparedness groups)
• Channel 7: Secondary channel for coordination
Avoid using
channels 8-14 for critical messages, as their lower power limits reduce range
and reliability. Minimizing Interference During regional or large-scale
emergencies, many users may converge on popular channels (e.g., Channel 1 or 3).
If traffic is heavy, coordinate with your group to shift to less congested
channels (15-22 for GMRS users). Be aware that some users never change or know
how to change channels on their FRS radios after taking them out of the box.
GMRS repeaters (typically on channels 15-22) can
dramatically extend coverage. Designate a known repeater for use by licensed
team members, ensuring all users understand its activation protocol. In our
valley, all the GMRS repeater slots are filled. Repeater channels and locations
have been surveyed and approved by those in the know to give the optimal
coverage. Scott Saunders from the State and Ted McArthur locally have overseen
recent efforts.
Privacy Codes.
Many radios feature "privacy codes" (CTCSS/DCS),
which filter out transmissions from other groups. While they do not make
communications private or secure, they help reduce distractions. Agree on codes
within your team but be prepared to disable them for broader coordination.
Radio
Etiquette During Emergencies
Brevity and Clarity Messages should be short,
clear, and purposeful:
• State your location and need at the outset
• Avoid
unnecessary chatter—reserve airwaves for vital traffic
• Repeat critical
information if needed
Standardized Protocols
Use established communication protocols to avoid confusion, such as:
• “Break” for urgent interruptions
•
“Over” to signal you have finished speaking
• “Out” to indicate the end of
communication
• “Mayday” or “Emergency” for life-threatening situations. Train
all users ahead of time in these conventions.
Call Signs and Identification
GMRS
license holders should use their FCC-issued call sign for identification,
especially when using repeaters or in mixed groups. FRS users may use plain language (e.g., “Base,” “Team One”) to simplify coordination.
Deployment
Strategies Pre-Planning Before an emergency arises:
• Distribute radios and test
all units in advance
• Define primary and backup channels and protocols in
written emergency plans.
• Train users on radio operation, etiquette, and
battery management
During an Emergency.
• Establish clear leadership (e.g.,
appoint a communications coordinator)
• Maintain scheduled check-ins to keep all
parties informed
• Monitor alternate channels for outside information and
coordination
• Preserve battery life by minimizing unnecessary transmissions
After an Emergency
• Conduct a communication debrief to identify what worked and
what can be improved
• Recharge, inventory, and maintain all radio equipment
Legal and Ethical Considerations FCC Compliance
• FRS: No license required, but
users must comply with power and antenna restrictions
• GMRS: License required
for higher-powered or repeater-enabled radios
• Do not transmit false distress
calls or interfere with lawful communications
Respect for Other Users Always
share the airwaves respectfully. In large-scale emergencies, your team may be
sharing channels with neighboring groups, first responders, or unfamiliar
individuals. Communicate courteously and do not monopolize the channel.
Limitations and Recommendations
While FRS and GMRS radios are invaluable in
emergencies, users should be aware of their limitations:
• FRS range is limited,
especially indoors or in dense urban areas
• GMRS requires a license and may be
costlier for high-power or repeater models
• Channels may become crowded during
widespread disasters Recommendations:
• Test radios and train all users
regularly
• Establish written communication protocols before emergencies
•
Consider supplementing FRS/GMRS with other communication methods
Conclusion FRS
and GMRS radios, when used thoughtfully and in accordance with FCC regulations,
provide a backbone for emergency communication in a variety of scenarios. By
designating channels, maintaining disciplined protocols, and fostering
cooperation, groups and families can ensure that critical information flows
smoothly when it matters most. Preparation is essential—plan ahead, train, and
stay ready to communicate in the moments that count.